Unit 5-Subtle Mind Exercise

When asked to compare the Loving Kindness and Subtle Mind Exercise, I had no choice but to be totally honest! The Loving Kindness exercise allowed me to tap in to my most inner thoughts and feelings. I can honestly say that it became easier over time as I tried this technique a few times this week! On the other hand, I would have to try the Subtle Mind exercise at a later time because I did not enjoy the long delays between instructions. When asked to count 10 breaths at the beginning, it seemed as though I had counted 20 before I heard the voice again. This frustrated me and caused me to loose focus many times! Although the Loving Kindness was very emotional for me, I would have to choose it over the Subtle Mind exercise. The Subtle Mind was too relaxing, and I found myself drifting off and working harder to get back in tune with the execise. This exercise would benefit me more after a long day at work, because I often need assistance to help me relax after a long crazy day with high school students! I don't think this exercise is one that I would use often in my daily routine.

Unit 4-Loving Kindness!

I must admit that the loving-kindness exercise was somewhat beneficial, but also difficult for me! I enjoyed the background noise which sounded like waves near a deserted island. I always imagine myself escaping to a very far place which consist of only me, the sand and the clear blue waters. I was able to connect with my inner-self as I focused my attention on my spouse, the one I care so dearly about. It wasn't difficult at all for me to generate that attention into my own state of mind without any difficulties. This connection was very easy for me and helpful because we both share the same type of happiness and goals.

I found it difficult for me to endure the pain and suffering that my dear uncle is experiencing at this time. This became very emotional for me, and my mind began to wonder on my mom and others that are also suffering from illnesses. It was hard for me to embrace the pain that each of them was enduring. What should have been a main focus on one, turned out to be pain suffered for many. It was hard to connect and let go of the emotions that I have for these individuals!

I did not particular care about including my enemies in my session. For some reason, I began to loose focus because I began to focus more on the bitterness they had towards me, and less on the engagement for this part of the session.

As I focused on the concepts of " mental workout", I began to establish some ground rules within myself. #1. I had to realize that it was going to take more than one session to change my thoughts and views towards adapting to love-kindness within myself, because I feel as though I'm always the one giving and hardly ever receiving. Which often leaves me with a feeling of doubt towards others, as well as trust issues that are often difficult for me except!
#2. In order for me make use of this practice, I must gain a sense of understanding towards the practice and the methods before totally engaging in this type of meditation. It left me wondering and asking myself, "Am I the only one feeling this ways, or is it hard for me to connect to others while focusing on myself?"

I'm not sure if I would recommend this session to anyone because I noticed that there was too much laps time within the session. This caused my mind to wonder off a couple of times during this sesssion!

Unit 3 Blog

As I rate my spiritual, physical and psychological well being, I must first concentrate on my life as a whole. I woud have to rate my physical well-being as a 7, because I know I can work harder toward getting fit. Although I have made some major changes in the past two months, I have come to realize that it will not hurt to take some more time out for myself and work on self-improvements. I would have to give myself a 6 in the area of spirtiual well-being. I'm working harder on concentrating on God and what he has done for me, but my worship service can use a great deal of improvement. My psychological well-being needs a lot of improvement, and I must rate myself as a 4.5 in this area. The last couple of weeks has caused me not to think clearly...making it harder to make important decisions.



Lately, I have been taking a hour walk every morning, before heading to work. This helps release any added stress, as well as prepare me for the day that I have to look forward to. I believe this newly activity will help enhance my ability to think better, focus more on God as I look at the beauty of nature, and all the wonderful things God has created. Also, I believe that this will improve my psychological well-being.



The Crime of the Century was very relaxing at the beginning, but I began to get frustrated do the interruptions in my household. Although there were many distractions, I think this technique would have been more beneficial if I was in a private office setting. Am I the only one that feels this way?

Journey On relaxation exercise.

The Journey on relaxation exercise was very comforting and was needed after a long day. After a long tiresome day, my desire was to just sit back and kick my feet up to take the load off! As I found the most comfortable spot in the house (my overlarge chair and ottoman in my bedroom), I began to imagine myself on a deserted island with no voices...just me and a cool breeze. There was no distractions, no kids, no pets and no questions being asked of me! It was just me and only me! I could find myself giving in to the instructions of the voice which was coming through my computer as I practiced the relaxation exercise. Wow, I could feel it working as I relaxed every part of my body. My feet no longer ached from the high -hill shoes I had on all day long. The soreness from my four mile run, no longer distracted my thoughts. I just felt free, free from the troubles that burden me all week long. Before I knew it, the coach and my ottoman was no longer my comforting spot, my mind began to tell me that it was time to go to bed and receive the rest that was do to me a long time ago! Um I needed this! Goodnight!