This week we were focused on the subtle mind. Last week's exercise was more centered on others whereas this week we were not to focus on any one thing or person specifically. We were to allow our thoughts to "drift" and to acknowledge but not cling to them. This means that any random thought in our mind was "okay" and we were not attempting to have any particular thought. This is the witnessing mind.
I will be honest, I was excited as the exercise began with a male voice. Of course, I was quickly disappointed as the female took over for the remainder of the exercise. I had difficulty letting my mind "drift" and not clinging to thoughts as they came to me. I also had difficulty sitting still for the length of the exercise. I noticed my leg starting to bounce/fidget about half-way through the exercise. Then I found myself focused on the fact that my leg was bouncing (which means I was, in fact, clinging to that thought). Overall it was a decent exercise, but definitely not my favorite to date.
Wellness is all-encompassing...spiritual, physical, and mental. One cannot be truly "well" if one of those things is not "in tune." I think of it like a three-legged stool. If one leg is shorter (or longer) than the other two, it is not stable and cannot really be sat upon sturdily. To develop wellness, one must consider (equally) all three aspects and strive to improve all of them.
Until next time...
Well Erica, you gave it a try! How many times did you practice this exercise? I believe if you make it a daily habit; you will gradually train the brain. Focus on the breathing and the brain will follow the rhythm. It takes consistent practice and then, without warning, you will see results.
ReplyDeleteI have started to notice the difference in how others respond to me. They feel your vibrations without a word being spoken. It is an awesome awakening.
Stay the course!
Lola L
Hello Erica
ReplyDeleteI think we are all having different types of reactions to these exercises. I thought it was kind of funny that you were excited by the male voice. That was really cool how you were honest about that. But that also shows that certain things may catch your attention. However, I too didn't get a whole lot out of this exercise, it made me think a lot about running. I really enjoyed reading your blog post. Also great job on the page and I like your hair and although I can't tell what they are, I like the tattoos as well. I too have a bunch. You must be a very free spirit. Good blog post!!!
Many thanks
Tony P
I love your comparison to the stool! It is perfectly explained by that example! This exercise was a bit difficult for me as well. I had a hard time sitting still for the duration of it. I think the idea behind the exercise is great because you're not focusing on just one thought, you're letting your mind wander through all of them without clinging to just one particular thought. Although the concept is smart it can be quite difficult to achieve. I will have to try harder next time to remain still and focused.
ReplyDeleteHi Erica,
ReplyDeleteI am in tune with your assessment of this week's exploration of witnessing. I am so very used to coming to a one-pointed focus in silence following my tai chi practice that I find the voices very distracting. It feels like I am adding a layer (and it isn't even white or pink noise) that doesn't need to be there. As a beginning point for some people perhaps it is a good tool for letting go. Thanks for your blog post! Roberta