My mind was very busy today. It was hard for me not to drift away. As this was giving me the sounds of waves I put my bad day on a raft and pushed it into the waves away from me. As I did this I started to feel better and a bit more relaxed. I really like the sounds, my breathing got better. To compare it to the loving kindness, I found the subtle mind to be easier and better. I could not do the loving kindness that easy.
Exercise has helped with both the physical and mental health. It provides a balance. In a way it goes hand-in-hand. I have a lot of stress and to be honest, it is even more stressful right now for me. I just got a new job so I am trying to go through that process, and that process is making me feel like I am going to work for the President. I am still working at my current job, I am doing school work, and getting my kids ready to start school in a week--I am going crazy!
Jennifer Johnson-Orchard
Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteI like the visual of pushing stress and problems away on a raft. What better way to send a bad day packing than to visualize it floating away! I agree that the subtle mind was a bit easier than the loving kindness exercise but I liked them both none-the-less.
I get what you are saying about the increase of stress. I am trying to coordinate a move, work 2 jobs, teach martial arts and keep up with school! My stress levels are through the roof but the contemplative exercises seem to help as well as my workout. Good luck with the new job, hang in there you'll do great!
Marlyn D
Hi Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteIt seems to be that kind of day, just "busy".
Unfortunately, I did not get the same type of experience that you did with this week's exercise (The Subtle Mind). It was harder to concentrate and I really did not care too much for the narrator. She seemed to be more a distraction to me. I did seem to notice more attention on my body. I noticed that when I began with the exercise I was a bit tense and leaning forwards. As the exercise continued I my postured changed and I began to relax more. I was not leaning forward anymore.
My experience was a lot better with the Loving- Kindness exercise. It was an interesting experience either way. It's made me more observant of my body and mind.
Exercise is great for stress. I cannot wait until tomorrow! I'm going to a family yoga class. I cannot wait!
Hanging in there!
~ Ana