Just as we exercise the body, it is necessary to exercise the mind. Without a mental workout the mind may become closed or narrowly focused. Eventually this focus becomes self-centered, reducing vision even further. Mental workouts directed at elimination of negativity (anger, worry, fear, doubt) open the mind for expansion rather than closing it. Active development of positive (love, kindness, happiness, patience) to replace the negative, improves mental and physical wellbeing. The movement of self focus to giving/enhancing others becomes a natural progression. In turn this advances spirituality.
Daily mental workouts will improve and enhance decision-making, coping skills, and sense of purpose in life. This also pushes aside psychological detriments. Allotting time each day to reflect and clear the mind, to capture and dissolve thoughts harboring ill will lead to almost an automatic “self-cleaning” removing the harm before it diminishes wellbeing. The result is a deeper expansion of consciousness taking the person to the next level toward human flourishing.
Hi Dianna,
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is important to excercise both the body & mind. I have determined to do both. I use the class CD for the subtle mind & also I have started walking & jump roping (which is so hard compared to when I was 10) and some weight excercises are included.
I have to build a habit up in both area's and I have stuck to my commitment with both...
It does help all around and since my chronic pain and excuse for not excercising vigorously was my knee's I have found that through trial and error I can excercise more effectively for weight loss & through trial and error I can reach a mindless state of awareness filled with Presence... both take time and effort.
But when we are striving for the next level of flourishing it must be done...
Great post! Liz Hobby
Congratulations to you for working mind and body at the same time. The joint effort should enhance accomplishments in both! It has helped me to “self-clean” throughout the day. I was surprised at how easily this became with practice. I had started this as an evening activity but found carrying the “baggage” throughout the day blocked my ability during the day to reach a state of awareness. How is it for you? Most often I am able to take a few moments between patients and sweep out the cobwebs (so to speak). This leaves me in a grateful state at the end of the day.
ReplyDelete