These 2 exercises were like day and night to me. Both have the goal of bringing your conscientiousness to a higher level, but the loving kindness seemed to make you more aware of your emotions while the subtle mind practiced breathing techniques. I found the Subtle Mind exercise much more to my liking. Its drive was to let go and release any and all unwanted energy, an emotional freedom if you will. This exercise was very good at clearing the mind from emotional distractions and mental chatter. I found it to be very relaxing. The Loving Kindness exercise was very awkward for me. I felt it was forced and I found my emotions tend to get lost or fall out of place. I was easily distracted and didn't feel good by the end of it. Honestly, I felt guilty and a lot like I was a bad person. I know that was not the intent of the exercise, but unfortunately the outcome was very disappointing.
The connection between spiritual wellness to mental and physical wellness is important, and you can not function as a balanced individual without it. I believe that mental wellness strengthens your physical wellness with motivation, optimism, and drive. Spiritual wellness is the direction and the focus. Only within the 3 will you find balance and an escape from toxic and negative environments.
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your comparison of the two exercises. I found it so much easier to accept the subtle mind exercise than the loving kindness exercises.
My Uncle passed away on Sunday, and in the night when your mind is quiet and restless. My thoughts were racing, for the most part thinking of my Aunt loosing her life's partner. My heart hurt so bad for her. I remembered the loving kindness exercises and did practice, hoping to think she may find some peace that night. It did help me, but as far as actually helping her, I dont know how to ask. I suppose that when I see her next, I will simply be present for her.
I am in total agreement that the subtle mind technique really helps you let go of the frivilous thoughts that enter our minds daily. I was told once that you do not merely come up with your own thoughts but that your mind was like a radio reciever picking up all thoughts surrounding you rather they be from "God" or "Satan". It is said in the bible that we do not struggle against flesh and blood but against principalities. Most religions have a concept similar to this particular Christian teaching. In Cherokee we say that it is the Cyote ot Trickster that confuses you and sends thoughts not of your own. It is our job to get in touch with our Creator so we know what His thoughts are. Use that as your filter and know all good things come from our Creator the rest is not of Him and not worth thinking about:)
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