I am going to do Unit 7 in 2 parts.
I did the exercise and I must admit that this was one of those I had trouble focusing. I tried to picture my grandfather who died close to 20 years ago. Just like the other exercise where we were picturing people in our lives, I cannot just keep one thing in my mind. I really like the ocean, and that is what I liked most about the last one as well. I had trouble picturing the light and transferring it, I just can't get focused enough. I did not feel any different when I was done than when I started.
I hope as more time I will be able to incorporate some meditation into my life, but I think the kind that I like best are the ones that help you clear your mind and not think of anything or anyone. Right now because things are so busy that I need mind clearing. These exercises have definitely shown me what I am missing in my life and how much I do need to find time for meditation, so even if I haven't reaped any benefits immediately at least I have learned what I need to do in the future.
Donna,
ReplyDeleteI have been having trouble focusing to get results but the more I practice at it the better I am getting. Something that helps is to continue with the loving kindness to others around you and practicing the loving kindness for myself by experiencing nature to help clear my head of the "baggage" from everyday stuff I have to deal with. I also go out to the park and take some snacks for the squirrels and "chat" with them awhile and that seems to assist with dumping the garbage out of my head.
I have also noticed the more meditation I experience the easier it is to dump the garbage that needs to be dumped before I can experience the downtime I need.
Hi Donna. I think that the holidays have become a source of stress for many people--myself included--and that it is hard to relax sometimes. I keep trying to remind myself to slow down and take it all in, but it is difficult to do. I also have trouble getting into a full meditative state, but I find the act of true diaphragmatic breathing to work. We humans tend to forget how to breathe the most natural and healthy way over time. Usually our breathing becomes shallow and irregular, instead of instilling an efficient diaphragmatic breathing technique. When you breathe diaphragmatically, you do so by stretching down your diaphragm and not by expanding your chest bones. When it stretches down, the diaphragm pulls down the lungs and fills them with air. When it gets pushed up, it empties the lungs. A good example of proper diaphragmatic breathing is to observe a newborn breathing, their bellies rise up and fall down gently and rhythmically--this is how we are meant to breathe. Diaphragmatic breathing has a therapeutic affect, it is deeply relaxing. This way of breathing makes efficient use of the respiratory system by putting less burden on heart and lungs, there is maximum inter-change of oxygen and carbon dioxide, and the correct balance of oxygen and CO2 is maintained (Bharati, 2009). You may want to give it a try. Great post.
ReplyDeleteBharati, S. J. (2009). Diaphragmatic breathing. Retrieved on December 9, 2010, from http://www.swamij.com/diaphragmatic-breathing.htm
Donna:
ReplyDeleteIt is difficult to picture "someone" but we can focus on the healing presence instead of the appearance. My mentor wasn't known but she had a very wise and comforting presence. It does take discipline to continue to practice the mindfulness exercises. It is difficult to dedicate the time but is well worth it for the relaxation and stress relief part. This could be another requirement to "walk the walk" during our practice as wellness professionals.
Thanks for your wonderful contribution.
Donna,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. It is absolutely very challenging to try and do these exercises when we are surrounded by the chaotic circumstances of our life. Our family,jobs,and responsibilities keep our minds moving so fast, trying to keep up and look for solutions to todays problems. I personally am making some changes to my life. I am moving soon and will be in a very quiet, calm environment at that point I will try to incorporate these exercises again and again. I tried to focuss on my person too. I created my image and I managed to keep him before me, but my mind had him so busy doing things that I lost focus many times. I had my image taking me places and showing me things. I must admit that I enjoyed the journey but it was not what I was suppose to be doing and that was my issue, just trying to stay focused and follow the instructions. I have faith that I will get to the place I want to go. I have faith and I believe that is what I need for success. Great post, wishing you a wondeful peaceful year.