The love-kindness and subtle mind exercises offer different ways to accomplish psychospiritual development. I did however, find that the subtle mind exercise was more difficult to stay focused on because of all my preoccupations, while the love kindness exercises directed my emotions to a specific area, which was easier. Both exercises stress the importance of rhythmic breathing to help focus on and calm the movement of mental noise. During the love kindness exercise, individuals were asked to concentrate on positive emotions for others, then transfer those same emotions towards themselves. The subtle mind exercise instructs us on the importance of “resting or silencing” the minds noise or activity. This offers individuals the ability to better observe and control mental movements that hinder the natural healing process. Either way, both exercises presents alternative pathways to flourish and heal. With patience and practice, individuals will be able to utilize wisdom and resources that intentionally guides them towards integral healing.
LaVenus
LaVenus,
ReplyDeleteYes, I too have found days where the subtle mind exercise is not as easy. Additionally, I found I am not at my best in the morning with this exercise. I do much better in the afternoon and/or evening. I suppose this may be so because I focus on my physical body upon waking. This gets me ready for the day.
Have you tried different times of the day for the subtle mind exercise yet? You might find the results quite interesting. One gentlemen told me he likes early mornings for his meditation. Uh, yeah . . . because of my routine, this did not work well for me. I found myself completely distracted. Yes, this activity suits my lifestyle best later when I am needing the mental break.
Hi LaVenus,
ReplyDeleteThe subtle mind exercises can be difficult to master on many days just due to the nature of our busy, hectic, high technology, city-like environment. most importantly, practice makes perfect and we must continue to practice calming our minds and striving for that inner peace within self. Once we take a higher path to peacefulness on a daily basis, we will begin to flourish as humans and see remarkable healing take place, not just in our lives but in the world en general.
LaVenus,
ReplyDeleteControl and focus I think is key to keeping our mind on task, whether it be on a certain subject or just for a sence of calmness and peace. For me, I did not get as much out of the subtle mind exercise vs. the loving-kindness. I really enjoyed focusing on my feelings towards others and the way I felt about them and myself.
Hello LaVenus, the loving-kindness exercise was very nice and relaxing and like you stated, offers different ways to accomplish psycho-spiritual development for yourself. I definitely agree with what you mention about both exercises stressing the importance of rhythmic breathing to help focus the movement of mental noise. One thing that I had a hard time with at first was the giving loving-kindness to someone who had hurt you. It took me a while, but I did it and feel better about doing it. Integral health is starting to become a very important part of my life. Thanks for sharing and have a good week!
ReplyDeleteAnthony