If I must choose between all of the practices we have learned then the subtle mind and visualization are the two most beneficial for me. Both of these practices lead me to positive thoughts and ,therefore, improved mental fitness. Now, this is not to say that I did not find benefits in the other practices because I have. For instance, my experience with the loving kindness practice led me to places I have not been. However, the subtle mind exercise I use quite often to develop a calm mind. I have found that breath focus is beneficial anytime and for many reasons such as to calm emotions, lower blood pressure, focus energy, and even to move better. Practicing the subtle mind allows one to access the subtle mind quickly and readily whenever one needs to focus their energy. I find I often need to refocus and this is a great way to do it.
I will reiterate. I believe that ones spiritual, mental, and physical wellness are one, therefore, all of these practices nurture the whole being. Visualization is also a technique I use regularly to gain my focus, calm my mind, and to gather and direct my energy. Visualization can also be done anytime anywhere. I also use visualization to help me sleep better and to summons up positive energy. I chose these two practices as most beneficial to me because I can have access to these tools without necessarily having to find a quiet place to sit and meditate. I feel the goal of all of these practices is to develop the inner self in order to train the mind and focus our energy. Sounds like a good plan to me!
Hi Kelly,
ReplyDeleteVisualization is a favorite of mine, too. I find it easier and easier to practice it each time I do it. My favorite time to do this is right when I wake up, before I get out of bed. My mind is more calm and at peace at this time since my day technically hadn't started; nobody has riled me up yet. I begin my day with feeling happiness and love and this couldn't be a better way to do start the day. I am going to try it before I go to sleep to see if it helps me too to fall asleep like it does for you.
I think it will Emily. Let me know if it helps, however, it may take some trying before it works. You see at first my mind wants to keep going in the visualization. If you use the same scenario each time your brain will eventually think of it as a bed time story and fast asleep you will fall! It really is a technique in training the mind. Thanks for your comment!
ReplyDeleteHola Kelly,
ReplyDeleteThe exercises that you chose are also the ones I found to adapt to the most. I guess practicing what works first while adding the other practices slowly works better than to force an exercise that you cannot grasp. I would suggest if you are going to use visualization before going to bed use night imageries like; the sky, stars and moons, or the sunset, or the dark sky over the sea while imagining the waters coming in and away from the shore. So, Relaxing!! Hope this helps.
JaeC
Oh I have no problem with sleeping. But thanks for the suggesstion JaeC. I agree it is best to do the exercises that come easy for you and then add other concpts to your core training. Good plan!
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year Kelly,
ReplyDeleteThank you for reminding me that at least one of these practices can be done outside of the standard seated meditation regimen. I have a very creative and imaginative mind which I should used to visualize my intent more often. Reading your blog as reminded me that this is a wonderful and simple practice that can be passed on to my current and future clients. Thanks again.
I never even considered to utilize the creative visualization exercise as a sleep aide. I have difficulty sleeping more than two hours at a time, and then can't get back to sleep for more than 20 minutes. Thank you for sharing that information with us. I feel that the visualization and love kindness exercises do not take much to accomplish. I am still having problems concentrating with the subtle mind exercise, but I will keep trying. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteLaVenus
kelly!
ReplyDeleteyou are an inspiration to those who are still learning to grasp these concepts :) i especially liked your comment on the importance of breathing - how remarkable it is that we can influence heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety and stress simply by channeling our breath! Great post, I hope that you've enjoyed your holiday season!
I agree. Though the subtle mind did not work as well for me, I love the visualization exercise. It's so much easier to embrace something you can see. however, I will admit that my faith has allowed me to believe in things that I can't. is that a sort of subtle mind technique?
ReplyDeleteYes Urban, It really is a simple yet effective practice which can be done anywhere. I think more people would use these techniques if they realized that they can indiviualize the process.
ReplyDeleteLaVenus, I hope visualization helps you sleep!
ReplyDeleteThanks Mia, I always keep in mind that Breath is Life!
ReplyDeleteI think it is Mzrenee....Many people use thier faith as a form of inner development and meditation. Whatever works right?
ReplyDelete