In the 1980s, I found a hidden gem of a store in Chester, NJ, called Cloud on a Mountain. This little shop was my gateway to all things metaphysical. The artist-owner, Zoe, introduced me to a transformative book, The Secret of Light by Walter Russell. The book opened my eyes to the idea that, like spinning plates, we can juggle many interests and endeavors if we learn to focus on one at a time. Mastering one plate allows us to move on to the next without feeling scattered. I realized then that my curiosity wasn’t a flaw—it was my invitation to explore a vast buffet of mysteries, from metaphysics to archaeology and beyond.
Later, I discovered The Man Who Tapped the Secrets of the Universe by Eugene Clark, a book that dives deeper into Russell’s life. One of Russell's practices struck a chord with me: he would devote exactly two hours to each activity before taking a break and shifting his focus. That resonated deeply. When I write or draw, after about two hours, my mind naturally craves a rest. Do you feel that way too? If so, you might also be in tune with the rhythms of your body’s natural energy meridians.
It turns out there’s wisdom in this timing. Just as Walter Russell followed his own rhythm, traditional healing arts like acupuncture have shown us that our body’s 12 meridians each peak for about two hours within a 24-hour cycle. This explains why, even in creative or focused work, a change can rejuvenate us. Does this idea make sense to you?
Small Shifts for a Big Difference
If your work requires you to stay seated all day, here are some tips to keep your energy flowing:
- Take a Five-Minute Refresh: Stand up, stretch, grab some water, and let your mind wander briefly.
- Boost with Scents: If allowed, try a mini-diffuser. A few drops of lemon oil can lift your spirits. (For me, only the best will do—Young Living oils are my go-to.)
- Stay Focused with Essential Oils: If you feel mentally sluggish, try Cedarwood on your hairline, Sacred Frankincense, or the Clarity blend in a diffuser. Just a touch can bring back focus and clarity.
For a mini mental vacation, take a few deep breaths, and picture yourself in a peaceful haven—a beach, forest, or any sacred place that brings you calm.
If you’re fortunate enough to devote a couple of hours to a task before moving on, you’re in tune with what some visionary educators have advocated for years. Maria Montessori, for instance, found that giving children a focused period for learning, followed by breaks, enhanced their ability to absorb knowledge. Here’s a link to learn more about her approach:
Maria Montessori’s Historical Perspective.
What Do You Think?
Have you noticed your own rhythm when diving into different tasks? How might you experiment with tuning into your natural cycles this week? Embracing these small adjustments could make all the difference in feeling centered, productive, and inspired.
