Eye Level Jumping and Peak Experiences Enrich Children and Adults

“JUMP JUMP, BOO! JUMP, BOO!” Claire was jumping wildly, holding onto her crib, just up from naptime. I grabbed onto the crib, stooped and jumped wildly (seriously, wildly) keeping at eye level with her. She would suddenly let go, fall back, laughing hysterically because I would do the same, falling back on the bed behind me waving my hands and feet in the air when I fell. Back up to eye level and wild jumping. SEVEN rounds of this and our eyes were only inches apart when jumping. At eye level there’s a certain kind of magic that happens with young children (older inner child activists, too). A special connection occurs, perhaps because you are both ‘equal’ on the physical level, seeing the same things, doing the same things. If you pay close attention, an energy can be felt that is different than when you stand taller than little ones and watch them playing. And they know it. Try it. Do some experiments and notice how you feel. When children feel connected tosomeone, there is an unmistakable joy that occurs. THAT is a peak experience. And peak experiences are said to enliven and enrich humans to reach more of their own potential. What a mutual gift! And, yes, I was tired from stoop-jumping and falling, but who cares!