For me I found that the Subtle mind exercise and the
practice of meditation were the most helpful, and the ones that I am most
likely to continue to implement in my life. Although it took me a while to get
used to the idea of meditation, I find that it has really begun to make a
significant difference in my ability to manage stress and regain harmony in my
life. I find that some of the less intense meditation styles, ones that don’t require
completely drinking the cool aid such as mindfulness meditation, are the ones
which I can easily adapt to. I like listening to calming music and nature
sounds while focusing on cleansing thoughts or on an image which brings me
peace. This is why I found that the subtle mind exercise was one which I could
follow as well. It was the simplest of the exercises, and did not require
envisioning too many far-fetched concepts or images (such as like shooting out
of anyone’s head!). I like that it caused me to focus on my breathing and on
pushing out all negativity from my mind. I feel that these practices are one
which I can continue to implement into my life moving forward. I think that by
taking a few minutes at night, before bed, I will be able to stick to a regimen
of regular mindfulness. I have even begun to reframe my thoughts and recall
some of the music when I am having a particularly aggravating experience (like
driving in rush-hour) which has truly helped me to remain more calm and aware.
Hi Leo! I think that focusing on your breathing is probably one of the easiest things you can do to calm yourself down and focus your energy. I think its awesome that you are starting a regimen of regular mindfulness. I hope it continues to work for you to better your life.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you're coming around. How about the boys at the station? lol. My husband isn't joining in at all so I've got some work to do. I might have to just read an exercise to him instead of saying it in my own words. He's not feelin' the love or benefits! I love the ocean sounds also and the smell of the sea and fresh cool air that comes in. It's always 15 degrees cooler at our beach than at my house and it's only 20 minutes away. All this "silliness" is keeping my blood pressure in check so it's all good.
ReplyDeleteI am thrilled that you found some techniques that work for you. There is so much in the world that can stress us out and if we can find healthy ways to escape from that we are helping ourselves and our families.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your blog post. Healthy diet and exercise, I have found, are the essential necessity to a healthy, happy, well balanced life especially when you suffer from depression. I have struggled with depression and I always find that it hits me at times when I'm not eating right and exercising. Good luck with all your goals! You can do it!! :)
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