The Subtle Mind
1. Compare and contrast the Loving Kindness
exercise and the Subtle mind exercise. Explain your experience including the
benefits, frustrations etc.
Loved the experience of The Subtle Mind practice and in comparison it seems more layers or deeper layers were penetrated in my mind. I was able with the breathing technique to become more focused and control my mind for wandering off. I gained sense of flying or freely moving without losing concentration. I gained a sense of stillness that I have not gained in the past exercises. Of course the ocean sounds and Indian flute music are my most favorite sounds when relaxing or otherwise.
2. Discuss the connection of the spiritual wellness
to mental and physical wellness. Explain how the connection is manifested in
your personal life.
The connection of the spiritual wellness to mental and physical wellness is very obvious, in believing in God in my case and knowing the more connected I become the better my mental and physical wellness becomes. I have always felt a spiritual connection which has been stronger at different times in my life. I think I gained a higher spirituality while fasting one time for twenty-five days. While in nature during my running time during this time it was like I had a direct connection to the Lord. My running time has for many years been my prayer time which is why I am finding out through this class and this units reading is why my spiritual connection has been strong. Being in nature or the outdoors and being thankful and grateful for the sun, the wind, the trees, the song bird, the breath, the health, the energy, the food, my parents, my sisters, brother, family and friends as well as all beauty surrounding me connected me more than I realized. Now with a better understanding of truly “stopping and smelling the roses” I have gained a deeper appreciation of my spiritual connection than ever before.
Dacher, E. (2006). Integral health: The path to human flourishing. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Publications, Inc.
Schlitz, M., Amorok, T., & Micozzi, M. (2005). Consciousness & healing: Integral approaches to mind-body medicine. St Louis, MO: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone.
I find the time I go running I feel the most connected to God and the universe in general! There is just something about being in nature that gives me a sense of where I belong. My favorite moments in life are when I am camping with my boyfriend and this remote camping spot we go to and we just sit in silence listening to the fish jump in the lake and the birds singing! After each camping trip I come back feeling so refreshed and energized.
ReplyDeleteGreat post and glad running has been so helpful in your own spiritual journey!
Teri
Teri,
ReplyDeleteThank you and I love camping and fly fishing too. I find the outdoors in general relaxing just listening to the bird sing so joyful, the trees whisper with the breeze, the sun and a good breeze all the things I am grateful and thankful for. I feel very blessed in many aspect of my life but when outside it just reminds me of the important things in life...the beauty within nature itself.
Sandi
Hi Teri,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that this was a great experience. Although I didn't get the same sense of flying that you decribed, I did enjoy the stillness or inactivity of my mind. For once my mind wasn't busy analyzing the days events or thinking about unfinished business. I was really great.
Spiritually I was taught that man had a need to have faith in something greater than themselves in order to survive. She was a very centered person and GOD was important in her life. I wanted the peace that she always seemed surrounded by, so I chose to worship her GOD and I have never regretted it. HE has helped in my times of need and my faith in the quiet voice that warns you has always protected from harm. I enjoyed your post.
Teal
Thank you and I enjoyed your post as well, keep the faith.
ReplyDeleteSandi