For this exercise I found it difficult to stay focused. I felt like there was so much time between the each set of instructions that my mind had to much time to wonder. I think that the concept of internalizing love and kindness is beneficial because if these are the feelings we hold in our mind and heart we will project those characteristics onto everything we do but I do not think that this exercise will be the most effective way for me to achieve this goal.
The concept of mental exercise is kind of like physical exercise but for the brain. If we want to see any improvements you have to be diligent and patient. I thought it was interesting how the text differenciates between merely sitting with your eyes closed and relaxing versus mental exercise. Mental exercises require effort and intent. Dacher recommends that one hour be set aside each day for these types of exercises. I don't know many people who have an extra hour to sit and do mental exercises though. At best think that most people could at least take a few minutes each day to focus on these positive reaffirming thoughts of love and kindness.
I have to agree with you regarding the amount of time in between instructions. Also, I didn't find much comfort or relaxation with the lady's voice. Her voice kind of just got on my nerves. Therefore, I tried to concentrate more on the sound of the waves and the instruction, but it just didn't flow as well as the other exercises have in the past.
ReplyDeleteI appreciated your realistic substituion suggestion regarding the amount of time to dedicate to mental exercise each day. As I stated in my post, a few minutes sporadically throughout the day may lead to the 60 minutes needed for the day. I think for most, any time spent focusing on only the positive will make a significant difference. I hope to implement more of Dacher's concepts in my life.
Tara
I totally agree with you, it was hard to stay focused, my mind kept wandering. I didn't like how it would pause for a few minutes, and then the voice would guide you to something else. I have tried a few exercises that gently guide you to a relaxing place, and there are no pauses...this is better for me because my mind just followed along with no time for wandering.
ReplyDeleteI only tried this exercise a few times, maybe I will give it a bit more time.
I must say that the guys voice is much more calming and soothing than the ladies voice. I did though enjoy the exercise not as much as I have enjoyed the other two. I do though think it is important to be mentally healthy in order to lead and live a truly healthy, happy life
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. What distracted me was the waves and the water. To me, it didn't complement the narration. When I did it, my emotions was a bit overloaded and I couldn't focus on the love and kindness; even thought I tried it several times. I also agree that the time suggested may be too long; especially when there isn't enough time during the day.
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