Nobody can give us inner peace. It would be nice if we could buy it by going on a retreat or vacation, but this is not a reality. While we might enjoy a peaceful vacation with no arguments in a beautiful peaceful setting— this doesn’t mean that we experienced peace in our mind.
It’s hard to shut down our inner clamoring. Researchers believe that we have between 50,000 to 70,000 thoughts per day, or 35-48 thoughts per minute. Not only do we have all of our own thoughts vying for attention —add interactions with family and friends, work environments and all the other external stimuli including the likes of television, radio, email and the internet. We live in a state of constant overload.
Our overall peace can be enhanced by learning to “practice” meditation or steady breathing. There’s a reason the word “practice” is used: It takes lots of practice to quiet our minds. I’ve been practicing for more than 30 years and I’m still no expert. Sometimes I succeed beautifully, others, I feel like I’m failing miserably — yet I force myself to try anyway because I figure the discipline might help make me stronger for another day, when hopefully the quiet comes more easily.
Learning to practice basic steady breathing is a perfect place to begin to feel more peaceful. You don’t need to know any yoga style positions or worry about taking deep breaths (although good deep breaths in through the mouth and out through nose are stress-relievers.) Research supports that just practicing steady breathing reduces stress and increases relaxation. This makes sense if you’re aware of how often inadvertently hold your breath— particularly when you feel mildly aggravated.
Closing your eyes in a quiet spot — a car, bathroom, bedroom or yard all work. This shuts out visual stimuli. Next, focus on steady in and out even breathing, counting the in and out — keeping your breathing even. Just a few minutes at a time, is all that’s necessary. The only thought process is: “I’m breathing in and out.” If you notice a different type of thought pop up, gently remind yourself: “Later. NOW I’m breathing in and out.”
As a Taoist Proverb says: We cannot see our reflection in running water. It is only in still water that we can see.
This is Silver Disobedience™ #philosophy
@DianGriesel @SilverDisobedience #icon #model @WilhelminaModels @ApertureTalent
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