Shannon wrote these reflections for you!
 

A high-strung nervous system and negative subconscious beliefs can block our intellect from implementing what we know would help. First, we need to regulate (calm) our nervous system. The ground of the earth is here for us, and we can ground in the depths of our inner being.

“I can’t meditate.” It’s said all the time. People say this with embarrassment, frustration, or quiet defeat. They aren’t lazy. They want the peace meditation promises—but when they sit, their minds explode with noise. Meditative ability is crucial for the process of emotional regulation and personal liberation. If we want to regulate our nervous system from flight/fight (or a low but persistent anxiousness) toward a calmer state, we need to practice observing our thoughts.

I explained that she could wander around until she saw a place that felt like it could be her first grade desk, however the trees and plants and slopes in the ground gave that feeling. She checked out the surrounding environment. Finally she sat on a log, and said, “This is it.” I asked if I could role play her teacher, and she consented, knowing that at any time, she could stop the role play.