Thursday, November 11, 2010

Unit 5

1. Compare and contrast the Loving Kindness exercise and the Subtle mind exercise. Explain your experience including the benefits, frustrations etc.


The subtle mind practice turns to a more inward focus and uses the breath as a tool of observation. The Loving Kindness practice expanded the field of compassion to one’s self and all those around. I much prefer this type of practice as it coincides with my current practice of Vipassana meditation which is what I use. I enjoy this practice as it is getting me slowly back into my daily practice. I enjoy the subtle mind practice more as it brings me closer to meditation.

2. Discuss the connection of the spiritual wellness to mental and physical wellness. Explain how the connection is manifested in your personal life.
I think there is a great connection between physical and mental wellness to one’s spiritual wellness. I believe that all three of these types of wellness are interconnected. In my personal life I find that when aspects of one of these areas of my life are balanced it overflows and positively affects another aspect. Conversely if I am out of balance in one of these areas of wellness then the imbalance has a tendency to snowball keeping or throwing other things out of balance as well. I find the interconnectedness of physical, mental and spiritual wellness to be personal challenging balance that I am working diligently to gain and more importantly maintain control of. Balance is a fundamental aspect of wellness in all areas.

Metta,
Michelle

2 comments:

  1. I have never heard of the Vipassana meditation but it is definitely something I am going to look into. I am interested in learning new meditations because the ones we have currently used has helped me tremendously. Since our spiritual, physical and mental wellness are all interconnected I think this is important. I couldnt agree more that there is a snowball effect when one aspect of our life is out of balance it affects the rest! Great blog!

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  2. Michelle,

    Thank you for sharing your experiences. I had not heard of Vipassana meditation before, it intrigued me so I looked it up and was able to find some exercises to practice, so again thank you.
    I also realize that when one aspect, whether it be my mind, body, or spirit, is off that they can and most likely will all end up 'off'. When I am able to feel balanced and centered I feel I am at the top of my game and I can accomplish anything. I completely agree with you on the fact that balance is a fundamental aspect of wellness in all areas.

    Peace,
    Nico

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