1. Beneficial is something I'm not sure I find these mental exercises. I find them more difficult, which annoys me, and I don't believe that is what is supposed to be happening. I would never not recommend these sort of mental exercises as I do think, I do hope, people get something out of these. I'm trying and the honest to God truth is I have a hard time with them. I do recognize the analogy of working out in the gym is a learned behavior and I must apply the same sort of principles with these exercises. I'm making an attempt to try to set aside at least 30 minutes a day to sit in quiet silence to think about being more loving and kind to my fellow humans.
2. The concept of Mental workouts is such that we all should be doing mental activites and exercises to strengthen our minds. Research has shown, with proper work and training, we can actually change the chemistry and construction of our brains. What a cool thing to be able to do. I don't think it's as easy as they make it sound. I don't think everyone can play professional sports and I don't believe that everyone is going to be able to have the same mental focus this sort of growth might call for. I hope I'm wrong.
Mike Scales
Mike,
ReplyDeleteI hope you find comfort in knowing you are not alone in your frustrations. I too find these exercises to be extremely difficult and hard to focus into what the narrator wants me to do. This first exercise we did was best suited to my preferred style so far, but the last couple have been rough going. I too get frustrated and annoyed. I also am keeping an open mind, attempting to complete the exercises as best I can, and lead an active lifestyle. I wonder if our lack of comfort with these relaxation techniques comes from our busy lives and upbeat workout routines. Our idea of relieving stress has been turned to active sources and now it is difficult to just sit and empty our thoughts. Just know someone else is out there struggling along with you and keep at it!
Hi Mike,
ReplyDeleteI LOVE your honesty. I think some of my struggle with the exercises, has to do with my faith. In my attempts to find "inner peace" without first seeking my Savior feels like a betrayal. My peace comes from Him. I hear from what you are saying, might be that you are finding that "inner" peace in your exercising. You are in a "zone" in the gym!!
My son and I have had discussions of talent and passion. If you have the passion for a sport or a craft, you still need to develop the talent and skills.Not everyone has that drive to stick with it and pay the price to be at a professional level. Do you think these mental exercises might be beneficial as one is working on those skills?? For example- the breaking of boards in Karate. You are instructed to see your hand on the other side. If you focus on the board, you will only hit the board. If our goal is to find a quiet spirit in order to play passed the potential, these exercise might help.
I can't wait to see where we all are at the end of this class!! I know I have a lot to learn!!! I completely agree, these exercises are challenging!!!
Mike, when I first started practicing meditation I would always go to sleep. I realized I needed to practice first thing in the morning when I am awake and full of energy. I also was very distracted with my thoughts, but with this exercise it’s okay and you should welcome the thoughts. Let them come and quickly go giving all your thoughts validation. My suggestion is start off slow with 10 minutes a day until you can build up to 30 minutes. I do understand where you are. It’s hard for me also but it takes time.
ReplyDeleteMike it is hard to train your mind like this when you live such a busy life, but making the time to do so is definitely worth it. thank you Mike
ReplyDeleteHi Mike,
ReplyDeleteGreat blog! I also do mental training and exercises on my own during the day. I feel it is important to exercise my brain by remembering useful facts rather than just junk I read on facebook. It is always important to continue learning and learn something new everyday!