Taking time to practice mental exercises has allowed me to focus on breathing and quiet my mind. I am more aware of when I hold my breathe, the stress that triggers that response, and how to reconnect my thoughts to my body to minimize the anxiety. Doesn't work everyday, but believe me, I am far less explosive then the me of the past.
The Loving-Kindness exercise helps you to focus specifically on an individual or situation that you care about. Visualization of inhaling all of the hurt that person experiences, without becoming overwhelmed, and then releasing healthy, good, restorative feelings with your exhale is powerful. This exercise releases feelings in me that are euphoric in nature and give me a sense of elation and peacefulness. The Subtle Mind exercise is more challenging. This exercise allows your mind to become an observer of thoughts, but minimize any reaction to those thoughts. Sometimes, it's like watching a fire burn out of control. I want to react, throw water on it, ask how it started, why, when, who? Instead, I am reminded to let the thought drift from my mind and refocus on my breathing. The process starts again. Breathing, breathing, breathing; the laundry is not done, deadlines are due, did I make the right decision? It doesn't matter; just breathe.
There is a benefit to both of these exercises. It gives me an opportunity to focus on a specific loving feeling and apply it to myself. Very important to remember to love yourself as you love others. Chances are, if you are angry and aggressive to others, you are even worse on yourself. And your body will respond in the most negative and destructive ways imaginable. Additionally, learning how to observe thoughts gives me a sense of control; I am the master of my fate! My mind is only as limited as I make it! Every practice, every moment, every time I stop the chatter, I have an opportunity to connect to my creator and the collective consciousness that holds the key to inner peace. Who doesn't want that? I know I do!
Keep practicing! Namaste~
Hello Rozelle,
ReplyDeleteI can agree with you, what is the point of being strong in body but weak minded. As for the exercises I found this week's exercise of the subtle mind to be very helpful. I found that I was more calm and at ease, and more focused compared to the loving kindness exercise. I liked the fact that the narrator did not come in and disturb my state of mind, unlike the other exercise where the narrator came in like every 2-3 minutes making it harder for me to enjoy that time to myself.
Good Evening Rozelle,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your blog. The example of the fire and wanting to react but just letting the thought drift out of your mind focusing on the task at hand and breathing is something I find extremely hard to do. Being so multi-tasked I am finding is not healthy at all and that more time to reflect, release stress and regain balance in my life has got to be a priority. The benefits of these meditational exercises will not be beneficial for self but my family and all those I encounter because I will have a better attitude that can be seen and felt. Thanks so much for the insight and I love your pictures, looking at them visual give me a sense of peace lol which shows AI am long overdue for stress relief. Also what is "Namaste"?
Respectfully,
Desiree Stroder
Rozelle, Yet again what a powerful and insight blog post. I agree stress can play a huge factor in our lives, and we must get to the place to let go and breath. You said it best you can only hold your breathe for so long until your life may feel like it's dried-up and you no longer have the strength to focus or be connected within your self or to others. I believe mediation, and praying , exercise, eating healthy, drinking lots of water, and a good night rest with help with both body and mind.
ReplyDeleteBest regards to you on your journey!
Thank you for your comments. It is really good to know that things I have thought about privately really make an impact on people. It makes sharing experiences and lessons even more important.
ReplyDeleteWishing you good health.