Unit 5 the subtle mind

Spiritual wellness is directly linked to mental and physical wellness, at least that is what I believe. As a teenager, we referred to it as “getting right with God.” We were talking about intentionally moving yourself to a mental and physical state where spiritually could occur. We had ideals of where our minds should be focused and what actions (or inaction) should be taken physically. At that time, we were unaware of terms like subtle mind or unity consciousness. We felt there was something greater, more encompassing, and we wanted to be a part of it. Later, a natural progression into a gentler way of life began to develop. A holistic approach to life developed. It seemed this was the proper path to journey to wellness. This week’s exercise reminded me of those days from long ago.

The subtle mind exercise was very different from the loving-kindness yet similar. Both were difficult to start initially. This may be because the last few weeks have carried tremendous burdens, and de-stressing techniques were not being utilized. Once the decision was made to partake of the activities it was as though a tremendous weight had been lifted from me. Upon completion I feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Here the similarity ends.

The loving-kindness exercises were soft and gentle. The ebb and flow of instilling and giving very much like the ocean tide slowly creeping unto the beach. At first, it is barely there, noticeable but not a focal point. Gradually, the momentum pulls the tide further inland, as the exercise expanded loving-kindness within. Then with great exhilaration the tide rushes back out to sea bringing with it greater serenity, understanding, and the desire to repeat again and again. It was comfortable, like a hammock on a summer’s day, no cares or considerations just enjoyment.

The subtle mind exercise was very intentional driven. The focus on breath made it easier to stay focused throughout the exercise. I felt tethered as a clearing of mental chatter began. It always seem each of those unneeded thoughts and emotions are tugging at me before being released. I finally reached a point of observation. It was similar to flipping through a photo album with a single thought or image on the page. Some were dismissed even before noted recognition, and other simply slipped by as a brief flickering. I experienced brief moments of calmness, stillness, and a sensation of depletion without a void. A single thought emerged briefly, “be still and listen.” Being full and empty at the same moment was intriguing.

Today, I tried something different with the exercise. I went to a favored spot in the wooded area just at the edge of an open field. A warm gentle breeze was blowing and the scent of honeysuckle in bloom filled the air. I sat beneath the oak tree with my dog sleeping near. As I stroked his fur I noted our breathing pattern was in unison. As I focused on each breath I began our exercise. As my mind cleared, from a distance, I was aware I still stroked the dog. The gentle breeze moved wildflowers in the field; it was much like watching a slow motion film unfold. There was a stillness filled with the vibrancy of life, it was surreal. Thought was gone; all that was left was life, an abundance of life.

Over the course of nearly four decades, a connection between mind-body and spirit has been intermittently cultivated. Sadly, at times when it offered the most I often turned away. However, the heart has never turned away. By cultivating the mind and optimizing physical wellness, the spirit has remained strong. Belief will always bring you home, where you are nurtured and have the ability to nurture others.