Unit 6: Meditation and Assessment

I almost hate to say this again, but I struggle with this week's loving-kindness exercise.  This is the exercise from Dacher (2006):

"Close your eyes and for a minute or two rest into the natural ease of your mind and body, and repeat the following phrases for 10 minutes:
May all individuals gain freedom from suffering.
May all individuals find sustained health, happiness, and wholeness.
May I assist all individuals in gaining freedom from suffering.
May I assist all individuals in finding health, happiness, and wholeness."

Ten minutes never seemed so long.  I actually found myself looking at my watch more often during this exercise than any previous.  I suppose I am impatient, or maybe I just need *a lot* more practice at this whole "quietness/stillness" thing.  This was harder for me than the weeks previous because there was no noise (no water soundtrack, no voices...just nothing).

The second part of our weekly exercise was a personal integral assessment.  Of all aspects, I chose my biological  aspect to focus on.  I am more critical of my physical appearance (and less satisfied with it) than any other aspect of my life.  Most of my personal struggles come from my dislike of my physical body (although I know that makes me sound shallow, I am not).  I chose this aspect because I know my life (in so many ways) would be so much easier/less complicated if I could just learn to love my physical body.  In an attempt to grow this part of me, I have placed positive affirmations relating to self-love all over my house (particularly by my computer, in my bedroom, and in the bathroom) where I spend the most time (other than work, of course).  Another thing I have done is purchase a full-length mirror for the first time in at least 15 years.  I make myself look at my body every single day, even if for only a few minutes.  I am hoping these two things, along with positive self talk, will help begin mending this area of my life.

Until next time...