One of my favorite exercises of this term was a simple relaxation exercise that we did back in unit 2. I benefited from this exercise probably more than any others I have experienced thus far. It basically walked us through relaxation in general and showed us how we are able to direct our blood to any part of the body that we desire. It was and is my favorite by far, because it not only started one on the road to focus, but it specifically met my physical needs at the time. Implementing this practice to benefit my personal life is as easy as taking the time when I lie down at night to warm my feet if I need to. Okay, I know that sounds silly. However, this exercise shows how the mind and body truly function as one and this is necessary knowledge for fostering mental fitness.
Hmm . . . my second choice would probably have to be the Subtle Mind Practice. Yes, this practice showed how the wondering mind can be controlled. Yes, the breath was the focal point and showed how the "busy" mind can be calmed. Implementing this practice in my life in order to foster mental fitness is a daily act. This practice allows me to acknowledge the reality of what occurs in my head. Although, I do nothing with the thoughts, the awareness itself is eye-opening. Additionally, just having the thoughts dissipate was quite the relief throughout the entire process. Yes, this is another of my favorites.
Hi, Traci.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you found many of the exercises presented in this course to be helpful, particularly as they seemed to tie the concepts of the mind-body-spirit connection together for you. I do agree with you that it is amazing to realize how much control we have over our own minds; however, I one of the things I think is the most fascinating about the human mind is this: no two people think the same way, which means that no two eercises are going to be equally effective for everyone. The vast number of differences between individuals (who might even behave in a similar fashion) makes the practice of mindful awareness a scientific art.
Keep up the good work.
-Joy Clark
Traci,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the Unit 2 exercise as well. I found it most beneficial before bed time. I was completely relaxed and able to peacefully go to sleep. I am glad you were able to find this helpful also.
The subtle mind was one of the exercises I picked in addition to the loving-kindness practice. The subtle mind really did help to de-clutter my brain and help me focus on what was necessary. I bid you goood luck with your future practices and that they will be just as much help to you as they are now
Traci,
ReplyDeleteSimple relaxation exercise and Subtle Mind Practice are two good modules to practice to make yourself better mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. I also enjoyed these two practices as well. Mental fitness is great training to help us become more concentrated, relaxed, and at peace. and controlling our mind is the essence to mental clarity and focus. -Good Luck
Traci, After reading your post I remembered how much I enjoyed the relaxation exercise in unit 2, I am sure that is the one I kept falling asleep to and it felt so good to relax. I chose the loving kindness and visualization, I love focusing on positive thoughts and relaxing, the quiet positive thoughts with controlling my cluttered mind from the busy day gave me such power turning around my stressful day. The more interesting was the posts at how individual each week became. Everyone seemed to react differently to each exercise, which is proving what we have learned, every personality, trait, temperament is different and we are all very unique individuals with very different needs. Glad to hear that you have enjoyed the subtle mind and finding the power to retrain your mind and rid unnecessary clutter.
ReplyDeleteHI Traci,
ReplyDeleteThat is very cool that you were able to use the relaxation technique so well! I had trouble with it myself. I would like to try it again. Going further in the class and learning more has made me more open.