The two most beneficial exercises from this class are the Loving-Kindness practice and the Subtle Mind practice. The Loving-Kindness practice has helped me open my heart to self-love. It is also beneficial in helping me learn to control my mind chatter. I especially appreciate the peaceful, loving, and kind atmosphere I feel after each session. The Subtle Mind practice is more difficult for me. Mind chatter is difficult to view objectively for me. However, I am beginning to see more successes. I do not think I have reached Unity Consciousness yet, but the objectivity of the Witnessing Mind is starting to be easier which has lead to moments of Calm-Abiding consciousness.
These practices have and will continue to develop mental fitness by taking me beyond the coping stage of stressors and firmly planting me in a life of peace, joy, openness, loving-kindness, and happiness. (Dacher, 2006) I am a generational worrier. These practices have already helped me learn to bring that life-learned trait under control. It is not completely gone, but I am no longer filled with the constant tightness that anxiety and worry bring. I am also implementing these practices in developing my self-esteem. I have some business opportunities to consider and develop. They will take me out of my comfort zone but into great opportunities. Both require leadership qualities, a confident demeanor, and attentive/quick thinking. I am using the Loving-Kindness practice to develop my self-esteem, complimenting that with the Subtle Mind for alert but calm focus. Both practices have helped me be aware of the negative claims I make towards my abilities. I have become aware of the many times I say “I’m not good at ….” I now substitute that with “I will develop the ability to …”
If I am able to counsel or coach clients in nutritional health as is my goal, I will use the practices to establish flourishing not only for myself but for my clients. Dacher (2006, p. 98) describes this “as a precious opportunity for open-heartedness, loving-kindness, empathic listening, and presence. This is the moment for their soul and spirit to flourish.” I would like the people I come in contact with to experience flourishing.
Dacher, E. (2006) Integral Health: The Path to Human Flourishing. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Publications, Inc.
Cheryl:
ReplyDeleteThese exercises are great to developing our minds and helping us to make our consciousness fit for a good life, being at peace with ourselves and finding joy at being able to open to others as we practice on ourselves we become better at understanding the world around us and we are able to connect easier and better with all those we encounter. I believe that when we work on ourselves from within and learn to practice loving and kindness we can pour it out to the world. The subtle mind practice is being complete and whole and feeling of absolute confidence having intuition and seeing what many can’t see. The more we practice the better we become at understanding and connecting completely from this we can then help others.
Cheryl,
ReplyDeleteYou're a better person than I am. I wasn't able to grasp the two exercises as well as you seem to have been able to. It would be nice to be able to master them someday because I, like you, am a constant worrier. I'm going to keep at it, though, and hopefully I'll get it one of these days.
Cheryl,
ReplyDeleteThe once comment you made the struck me the most is the many times I say “I’m not good at ….” I now substitute that with “I will develop the ability to …”. I have often been told I am my own worst critic. I am harsh on my abilities but I think by incorporating your words into some of my meditation, I can overcome some of my self perceived deficiencies. Thank you for sharing that bit of wisdom.
Cheryl
Absolutely awesome Cheryl,
ReplyDeleteAs usual:) Loving-kindness takes us from "me centered" to others centered. I don't think we are all intentionally selfish but our lives can be overwhelming sometimes and we blockout that others may be worse off. Getting clients to even think about how their eating habits can benefit others in their family will definitely open flood gates of flourishing...keep up the good work you are well on your way to integral health
I can relate to the mental "chatter" that you mention in your post. Quieting my mental movements is the reason that I chose the subtle mind exercises too. I am beginning to realize how beneficial this exercise is and how many of my potential clients could benefit from this. As a health care professional, I will incorporate these exercises in the lives of my clients.
ReplyDeleteHi Cheryl,
ReplyDeleteIt shows you have been working toward applying these new techniques into your life. When we make changes in our lives we attract better opportunities. You have these beautiful blessings in front of you. Use the love you have for others for the strength you need to be of service to them. Im excited for you. Enjoyed your post!