I am not certain I will speak much about the loving-kindness exercise because the subtle mind exercise has greatly overridden any previous I have experienced so far. Yes, I like this exercise! Since I could not get past the "breathing in of the suffering" from the last exercise without making changes in my procedure, this unit has left me feeling refreshed.
Yeah . . . I like focusing on my breath and the time given to do such. Additionally, I loved seeing the thoughts come and go and not having anything to do with them. Oh, do not get me wrong . . . many I wanted to entertain. However, reminding myself of the fleeting and easily passage of each, I was eager for observation and this what was so enlightening.
Overall, the connection between the spiritual, mental and physical is entwining. Hmm . . . is that a good way to say it? I suppose it will work for now. They each have their own focus or "specialty" if you will. However, each category essentially affects the other. Mmm hmm . . . yes, the whole.
For me, this connection is manifest through the physical first. Working out on a regular basis prepares my body for the conditioning needed for the mental focus and spiritual growth to occur. Well, I may be wrong with this statement. I mean, prayer is a major force to recon with and focusing on my spirituality gives me more of the courage I need each day to even get to the point of physical activity sometimes. Additionally, having the mental focus to even consider or take the time to pray is another matter all together.
See what I mean by entwined? Each day is new. However, the fact remains that each of these connections would not be the same with out the other. Yes, integral is the key term. :)
Great points Traci, it’s like trying to keep track of ones thoughts, but through the exercise, we can learn to be/live more consciously which will in turn allow us to think more aligned with our intention to create a life of integral health and human flourishing. As one becomes more and more aware of the breath, one of the next stages of evolution is when the breath begins to breathe you. Once experienced, you will know exactly what I mean. Giving into the force of the Universe and being free to be a part of other realms of existing is both freeing and empowering. I wish you the best in your healing journey.
ReplyDeleteNamaste!
John
Hi Traci,
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts exactly on this week's assignment, "enlightening." It certainly was enlightening when I could just witness my thoughts flowing through my mind and not entertaining them as we usually do. I am so glad we are being taught these valuable lessons because it certainly allows my entire being to find serenity unlike how i've ever felt.