Hi, everyone.
I found the subtle mind exercise to be far more tolerable than any of the others we have worked with so far this term, probably because the main focus was on allowing stray thoughts to move through your consciousness without dwelling on them. As my main problem with guided meditation exercises has been the intrusion of thoughts (largely related to the exercise in question), I found this one easier to listen to and did not experience the same level of frustration that I have with previous activities. Unfortunately, I also did not experience the sense of relaxation that the author clearly believes comes with the meditation; however, I think this one is closer than any to an exercise that I might find useful.
The connection between spiritual wellness and mental and physical wellness is an interesting one and largely open to interpretation. Some people equate spiritual wellness with religious belief. I equate spiritual wellness with a sense of belonging and purpose within the universe, regardless of religious belief. To be spiritually aware is to be aware of how one's actions impact the surrounding world as well as oneself: to this end, it is important to consider each conscious choice and how it will not only reflect upon and effect the individual, but how it reflects upon and effects the individual's affiliations, relations, friends, and community. Not having a grasp of spiritual awareness leads to an imbalance in psychological functioning as the individual flails around (sometimes without knowing it) to try to find his or her purpose in life, leading to an increase in stress and a decrease in coping mechanisms. As we have already learned, poor coping mechanisms with regards to stress can have lasting physiological consequences.
-Joy Clark
Hello Joy, it is a shame that you are not finding these exercises even tolerable. I am actually discovering a whole new world. One that I knew was there and one in which I have experience to a certian degree, but these exercises are showing me a deeper place...a place with brilliant colors, peace, calmness, and, and, and,,,,I really cannot find the words I am looking for yet! I can't help but wonder if this exercise was slightly better for you because of the practice? Maybe you are slowly finding something in the meditation. I truly believe meditation is different for every one just as we individually! Good Luck Joy!
ReplyDeleteJoy I absolutely love your interpretation of spirituality and have to say I agree with you whole heartedly. I beleive myself to be very spiritual and yet very unreligious. I don't knock those who love their religion but find for me that I enjoy the philosophy of many different religious beliefs. A little of this and a little of that.....rolled it all up and you have Nychelle. I try to find beauty in everything around me. So what makes one person happy, I may not love but I love that that makes them happy. It's ok that you don't love these meditations because there IS something out there just for you!
ReplyDeleteHi, Kelly.
ReplyDeleteThere might be something to what you said in that perhaps the subtle mind activity was easier because of the practice we have been getting; however, I still tend to think I am struggling because I just have trouble following directions to relax. It's a lot like going to sleep when someone tells you to...no matter how tired I am, I find it very difficult to fall asleep until I am ready to fall asleep, regardless of whether it is the appointed "nap time" or not.
Thank you for your comments!
-Joy Clark