I found the most beneficial moment of the exercise to be when the speaker told us to us to give all of our mental processes spaciousness and ease and loosen any grasping and attachments. I tend to chase my own thoughts, and when I catch them, pin them down and choke them til they spill all meaning and truth for me. I want to know what’s true, and I want to know as much of that truth as possible, and I want to know it NOW. But unless truth is like toothpaste, which is supposed to ooze out when you squeeze it, might it become distorted if not treated gently?
For me, calming (the heck) down and just mentally “chilling” is definitely something I need to work on. Exercises like this still drive me nuts. I’m not a high strung person – but I’m really very mentally active. But taking time like this is something that’s good for me. Timing one’s breaths and giving space to thoughts allows me to become more intentional about what those thoughts and feelings are and how to better direct them.
I guess it’s this concept that’s the biggest “mental workout” for me. To use an exercise example – it’s the difference between pushups, which are a dynamic exercise, and a plank, which really, is just about holding still for a hot minute. But those planks can make you shake and sweat… and then make you stronger in ways that are surprising.
First and foremost I think you are a great writer. Your post made me laugh-you are so descriptive with words.
ReplyDeleteI do think it will take time to be more comfortable with slowing down and breathing. Practicing a little bit every day will make you a pro.
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your blog.
First, I agree with Kim Z-- you are a talented writer! ;)
Next, I can relate to your descriptions of a busy mind. My racing thoughts used to keep me up at night; they controlled me and I was just along for the ride. These days, however, I enjoy the driver's seat. I think it took a lot of mindfullness practice. As you mentioned, the part of the practice you most enjoyed was letting go of your tight grasp on mental processes. I have been sucessful at doing just that through self-talk, relaxation and breathing exercises. So, believe it or not, this stuff really can work, and I think you can be quite successful at slowing your thoughts with practice! ;) Please feel free to message me through our class email if you would like any tips!
Keep up your wonderfully talented and entertaining writing and best of luck to you in finding peace of mind!
Warmly, Laura Hall
I like how you think! Comical kind of. I can relate to the fast mind. I pretty much keep it going as well. The first one we ever did I liked very much and it relaxed me and surprised me. I had piece and quite then. These last couple I had noise in the background and my mind just didn't want to cooperate. Try laying down and doing this, but don't fall asleep! :)
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