I really did enjoy all of these relaxation exercises, and I think that they can all be used effectively by different people in different circumstances. If I had to choose only two, however, I would choose "From the Journey On" (the first exercise we did) and the last exercise we did on "Meeting Asciepius" (the visualization exercise). Both of these exercises focused on breathing, which I always find to be relaxing and helpful. Whenever I truly tune into my inhalations and exhalations, I can physically feel my muscles relax and calm down. I think that "From the Journey On" is a great way for those interested in meditation to begin, as it is simple and not too challenging to think about. The more and more I have been practicing meditation, however, I think that visualization exercises are great. I loved "Meeting Asciepus" because it enabled me to picture a person who I had positive feelings about. Whenever I can envision positive experiences (whether it be a person, a place, or an event as was in this exercise), I instantly am able to take negative behaviors and turn them into positive behaviors. Having the ability to re-experience happier times can help to create moments of happiness within my life presently.
I can use these activities to foster mental fitness because they essentially are "workouts" for my brain. Just as exercise is a workout for the body to foster physical fitness, consisent meditation and mindfulness exercises can help me to continue to expand my consciousness. Since these exercises are different, it will help to keep my mental workout vast and challenging. Over time, I will get "stronger" and closer to a sense of integral health. For example, practicing breathing such as "From the Journey On" will enable me to learn how to initally calm my body to prepare it for more challenging exercises later on. After time, visualization exercises such as "Meeting Asciepus" will enable me to reach into a deeper sense of consciousness and to continue to expand my mind. Again, I have really enjoyed these exercises, and I hope to continue using them in my own life!
Aimee Fairbanks
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Hello Aimee,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your posts from week to week. I agree with you these exercises were all beneficial in some way or another. I had to practice some more than others, overall I enjoyed them. I can tell from your readings that you are going make these exercises a part of your life. With your life forever changing you will need these exercises to stay focus especially during your pregnancy. I hope everything work out for your good.Thanks for sharing with us.
That is great that you got something out of each of these exercises. I hope that you find them very beneficial in the future. All of the exercises will come in handy as life goes on, and you will find yourself handling tough situations easier.
ReplyDeleteHey Aimee,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy your posts each week! You have been quite vunerable with "us" and I think that shows tremendous courage! I applaud your ability to share willingly and so openly.
You, as well as other classmates, have inspired me to strive for that positive progress. You've done a wonderful job and I appreciate the motivational attitude you've brought to the blog!
Thank-you! I wish you continued success with your forward movement and positive growth!
Have a great week!
Michelle
Hi Aimee,
ReplyDeleteI too, have really enjoyed reading your posts. I think that you have a great way of writing your thoughts in a clear manner. I agree with you about the hope for these practices. I wish that I will get stronger in my ability to promote wellness and calmness. Like any workout, the mental workout is tough and at times can be very frustrating, but focusing on the goal can really motivate me to continue to practice.
Thanks,
Aaron
Hi Aimee, often our lives become hectic. I'm very thankful that this class came into my life when it did. As a nurse, from a purely scientific point of view, the body's ability to enjoy extra oxygenation, to become calmer, be able to focus, and reduce anxiety and pain, helps dramatically with meditation. The rhythmic breathing pattern is soothing. When I snorkeling in the ocean, I enjoy my breathing sound and the "crackles" of the sea creatures around me. My hectic patient loads have been eased a little bit by the ability to pull off at a parking lot and listen to the Dacher CD.
ReplyDeleteGood luck in the future.
Respectfully, Steve Tardy