Certainty can be one of the most difficult of the Six Human Needs to get a hold of. The dark side of this one can show up as controlling or manipulative behavior. It can mean holding onto things when we should let them go. At its extreme side, this can manifest as hoarding.

Mindfulness is a fun way to experience certainty in the moment, without needing to hold onto anything. My hike last Monday ended at the bottom of a narrow sandstone cliff with a stream of water that ran into a small pool at its base. With all the people on the trail, I was sure there would be an interruption, but decided to spend a few moments in meditation. No one continued past the obvious trail up the stream bed to the end of the narrow canyon while I was there. For over a half hour I practiced awareness.

My body leaned on the sandstone, which was cool and rough. The breath deepened and slowed and sounds began to emerge: the flowing of water down the cliff overlaid with dripping from several places, a flying insect coming near from time to time, leaves rustling softly. Soft breezes whispered against my skin. A tiny fly landed on my chest; it tickled as it wandered up to my neck. I recognized the instinct to brush it away, but felt no need to do so. After a few moments it flew away.

Streaks of rust, yellow, and brown stone contrasted vibrantly with the bright green leaves of bushes and trees. I noticed the rocks and pebbles at the bottom of the pool and the skeeter bugs scooting around the surface. All my senses seemed to brighten.

On the way in I was careful at each creek crossing, looking and questioning each footstep. Following the trail back to the parking lot my footing seemed more sure. It was like a new sense had emerged and I knew where to step. I could just feel it.

Humans have the great ability to think things through, but sometimes we sacrifice being in tune with how we feel in the body. When you’ve made a big change in your life, it wasn’t just because you thought about it. That’s a first step, but the certainty of change comes through our deep beliefs and actions. Weight loss, a shift in attitude, greater confidence, a move or new career happen when we feel it in our in bodies.

Try this: Find stillness in your body and breath (preferably in a beautiful, natural setting). Start to recognize what is happening with each of your senses. Look closely. Smell the subtle fragrances. Listen to each sound that comes and goes. Recognize the sensations you feel on your skin and in your body. Name each thing as you notice it.

This week I decided to follow the paved trail that goes from the South East to the North West of Cedar City. I had briefly noted a war memorial while driving past, but walking the trail allowed me to see how much effort and care had been put into remembering those who died in the wars. I turned off the book I was listening to and took out my ear buds. I slowed my pace and reflected on the feeling that arose: sad, grateful. Heroic action will emerge when needed. I can feel it in my bones.