Oh what peace we often forfeit, or what needless pain we bear, all because we do not take the time to explore the contemplative practices that would offer us a sense of peace, happiness and wholeness!
I was on vacation this week and took the time to engage in the mental workout to nights shortly after 9pm. This is the most peaceful and quiet time for me. On the first night I have to admit it was a little difficult to concentrate and instead of going through the exercise for at least 15 minutes, I gave up and stopped after 5 or so minutes. On the second night however, I made an extra special effort to focus my mind focus on my relationship with my husband and what a fortunate woman I am to have such a wonderful, supportive husband, I then turn that feeling of loving kindness to myself and starting thinking about how special I am. There is nobody in this universe like me, I am fearfully and wonderfully made, I am in good health. All these positive attributes began to flood my mind. What I found most beneficial about the process was my ability to recognize the positive aspects of my life which in turn allowed me to see the "good" in others.
The whole concept of a mental workout is constantly practice the mind to "become a source of peace and calm, ease and delight, creativity and wisdom", according to Dacher (2006 p.66). By deliberately taking the time to practice the mental workout daily one will reap the benefits of "progressive development of an expanded consciousness and its healing capacities". Dacher (2006 p. 65).
Please don't hesitate to share your ideas!
I really enjoyed reading your blog! I really liked your opening statement. It was a really good way to start your blog. I totally agree with that. I, too, had difficulty concentrating the first time listening to it and had turned it off several minutes in because I was just not focused. Round two was better, I was able to concentrate and focus on the exercise. The beginning voice was a little awkward for me but after that ended it get better. I agree that the whole concept of a mental workout is constantly practice the mind to “become a source of peace and calm”. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHi Gayle,
ReplyDeleteI am sure it was great to be on vacation. I think to be able to get the full affect of these mental workouts you have to be able to give it the time that is required. Your blog was fun to read. I found it rather difficult to do the exercise because my children were interrupting me. Nice blog.
Lynthia