Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Practicing Loving Kindness

Unfortunately, I did not find the Loving Kindness practice to be helpful the  few times I have tried it. I have been feeling under the weather lately, which is more than likely the main reason why I could not find my focus on this exercise. Also, I did  not feel soothed and comforted at all by the speakers voice. Which did not help at all. I think that with practice, and developing a better understanding of the requested tasks to complete in  this exercise, I may be able to find it helpful in the future.

The concept of "mental workout" is the restoration of well-being. Research has indicated there are many proven benefits that mental health can have on our overall well being. There are many approaches to awakening the mind, reaching enlightenment and human flourishing. Meditation, yoga, intercessory prayer, and practicing mindfulness are ways of implementing mental workouts to foster our psychological health.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Well Being

Based on your reflections, and on a scale of 1 to 10 (ten being optimal well-being), where do you rate your A-physical well-being, B-spiritual well-being, C-psychological well-being? Why? 

On a scale of 1-10 (ten being optimal well-being) I would rate my physical well-being, 7 (out of 10). I am physically healthy, at my ideal weight and in good physical shape, but there is always room for improvement. I would rate my spiritual well-being at a 6, my spirituality is not found in a church or in the teachings of one sacred book, it is found deep within me, and all around me; in the sacredness of all the books. I practice Buddhism, which places emphasis on practical methods for cultivating spiritual awareness and on the importance of finding the truth for oneself. It treasures loving-kindness, compassion, equanimity, clarity of mind, and wisdom. Its hope is to alleviate suffering and to create healing and transformation so that all beings may experience the highest peace (nirvana). The term “Buddha” means an “awakened” or “enlightened” one who has discovered true wisdom and attained nirvana (the cessation of desire) in this world. My psychological well-being, I would rate a 7 (out of 10) I am a genuinely happy individual, grateful to smile everyday, and encourage others to smile along with me. But, I am still discovering ways of coping with stress and my emotions. 


Develop a goal for yourself in each area (physical, spiritual, psychological).
What activities or exercise can you implement in your life to assist in moving toward each goal?

To improve my physical well-being, I need to find time to exercise more often.
 
Within  Buddhism, there are various levels of mindfulness techniques and practices to help us understand our minds, achieve happiness, and attain enlightenment. I will continue to embark on my path of enlightenment, so I may grow spiritually.

Psychologically, I wish to improve the way I handle the negativity within the world around me. Through meditation I can learn to observe my thoughts, understand my mind, and relieve suffering. 


Complete the relaxation exercise The Crime of the Century.  Describe your experience. (What it beneficial? Frustrating? etc.)

I found this exercise to be quite relaxing. It was a nice way to unwind after a long day.

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Welcome!

Hello, and welcome to my blog!

I am grateful to be on this inspirational journey with all of you, to reach our maximum health potential, creating the energy to live a happier, healthier and more productive life. 

I found the exercise to be very relaxing. They really chose the right guy for that job! His voice was very soothing. It definitely helped to quiet my mind, and rest my body. Relaxed breathing, muscle relaxation, and soothing sounds are great relaxation techniques for stress reduction. I enjoy yoga and meditation to help me to thrive amid the challenges of daily life. Yoga soothes my spirit, stirs up my energy, and strengthens my body. Meditation quiets my mind, and welcomes me into a peaceful state of being.