Hello all,
I have enjoyed doing the exercises although I wish I would have had more time to do them. I did not do them the way I really wanted to. So, the way I can implement them into my life is by trying to do them daily, or even just weekly. Just like many other people in class, our lives are over-run by our spouses, children, work, school, and other daily activities that take up blocks of time in our schedules. It was difficult for me to find the time to do the subtle mind and loving-kindness exercises. My form of meditation comes from my running and exercise. I also like to get outside and enjoy nature. This may not necessarily be a meditation or mental exercise, but I also enjoy the time right before I put my son to bed when I'm holding him in my arms and listening to this beautiful instrumental CD of lullabies I play for him before he goes to sleep. It's so peaceful when it's just me and him in the darkness of his room with a slight glow from his nightlight. I really enjoy that time with him.
Anyway, I really hope to implement the exercises more in my life because they were relaxing and stimulating at the same time. I think the ones that worked best for me were the loving-kindness exercise and the visualization one from last unit. I want to try the subtle mind exercise again.
Danielle,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your comments. I have a similar background as you. I grew up in church and then backslid in my teenage years. am far from where I need to be. The best thing to do for you husband is pray and live by example. I would also have to agree about life just happening and things taking up time in our lives.
I know exactly what you are saying in regards to holding your beautiful little boy in your arms while he goes to sleep. (You both are beautiful!!). It is very relaxing, and I miss it. Hold him as long as he will let you. My baby is now 5, and does not like to be held much anymore. My oldest is 14. I will have to wait a few years and have some grandbabies to hold like that. Holding your child in your arms is very relaxing and healing. I used to just stare at my babies while they slept in my arms. That is spiritual healing right there!
Danielle,
ReplyDeleteYou are so right about our busy schedules. Life can make it difficult to try to set time aside for us, our "ME" time. I think with your running and being out with nature is awesome! That is certainly a great practice/exercise for the mind, body, spirit. As a future nutrition professional, I would certainly suggest these practices as they can calm the mind and as well benefit their physical fitness. I find my special bedtime with my son so soothing. Me and Daddy read him a book before bed but right before his last night night kiss and goodnight, he ask me to sing him his lullaby song (he has a special one) and it is just me and him...
Visualizing was wonderful and very moving as it can help bring us back to a happy and special moment in our time that we cherish. I will certainly continue to do this one to remind me that all that beauty and happiness does remain inside. I feel you have a good outlook in trying the exercises again and not giving up.
Hi Danielle,
ReplyDeleteI love your post because it is so honest. Life has a way of grabbing us and beating us down. Not say that in a bad way, its just we try to be so much to so many people. How can we do that when we can't sit still and have that me time that so many of us so desperately needs? You should really try the subtle mind exercise again it was one of my favorites. Maybe you can modify that exercise so you can practices it when you are running. Instead of using your breathing as your focal point maybe you can use the sound of your shoes hitting the pavement. Just a thought!
Happy Heart,
Tiffanie