This was a great exercise and one that will be easy to implement every day. I think it is a great way to start my day so I have been doing it first thing in the morning as well as before going to bed. It is easy to let the great love have for my daughter fill my heart and the first step allows that feeling to take place to move on to the next step. Becoming aware of the body and the thoughts that pass through the mind is a little harder as it is easy to start thinking about other things. I also found it hard to think of a loved ones suffering without it worrying me but the exercise can show us how to help rather than just worry about them. Expanding the loving kindness to all is a great way to feel connected. I don't feel I have any enemies but it is hard to expand kindness to those in the world who are truly evil.
The concept of a mental workout is to access all of the brains capabilities and resources to evolve out psychospiritual life. As with any workout it takes practice and consistency to get to and remain in a state where we are flourishing. There are proven benefits to mentally working out such as a positive outlook as well as a positive impact on attention and memory. It will also help during times of adversity in dealing with any issues that may arise. Scheduling time each day to workout both physically and mentally is key to a flourishing mind and body.
Hi Leslie. I do like this exercise but found it difficult to do everyday. I was able to do it about 3 times and not at a consistent time. I go to bed really late and rise really early. When I did get the chance...it helped relax and reminded me of how it keeps me open minded to think and feel for others and not just me and my immediate family.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that when it said to think of someone you love and fill your heart with thoughts about them, I thought about my daughter as well and it just makes you love them so much more. I found it difficult to not feel bad for my loved one I was thinking about because I know how great of a person she is and what all she has been through and doesn't deserve at all. But knowing that she is such a strong Christian and that she knows God has another plan for her, I know she will be okay. I also found it hard to consider good thoughts about my enemies, but we are all children of God so I try to look at it that way too. I think mental workouts are so important in every aspect of life. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
ReplyDeleteHello Leslie,
ReplyDeleteI loved this exercise it made me realize that the mind is very important and without a healthy mind it is difficult to achieve loving kindness. I also thought of my daughter’s which filled my heart full of so many loving thoughts. This exercise was very beneficial, but finding the time was very difficult task. I am hoping to find a way to focus on working towards psychospiritual flourishing and make the time.
Daphne