This Sunday I found some time to do the universal Loving Kindness exercise from our book. I kept repeating the four lines in my mind while focusing on my breath. Breathing in I thought "May all individuals gain freedom from suffering." Breathing out I thought "May all individuals find sustained health, happiness, and wholeness." Breathing in I thought "May I assist all individuals in gaining freedom from suffering." Breathing out I thought "May I assist all individuals in finding health, happiness, and wholeness." The first two lines of the meditation exercise felt natural. I really do wish that all people have freedom from suffering and find health, happiness and wholeness. After all, if everyone felt that way the world would surely be a better place right? The last two lines were a little more difficult. I would find my mind wandering and thinking that I don't have the time or ability to help other people with such a huge path. I can't even figure out exactly how to flourish myself. But after the exercise I began to think that the way I can help others is by just simply living my best and doing what I can. A simple kind word or small act of kindness can make a big difference. I don't have to show them the way to human flourishing, but just encourage and be connected to others. A lot of good can come from simply caring.
After coming to that conclusion I did my personal integral assessment. Biologically I have developed a good fitness regime and I eat a well balanced diet. I am also fairly self-regulated. Worldly I need more development. I am good at my job and always try to do my best so I have developed pretty well there. I do, however, want to do more social activisim. Unfortunately, at this point in my life, considering I work a full time job and attend Kaplan, I will have to put that aside until I am done with school. My interpersonal life needs a little more development as well. I have a close family, but I need to make more time to spend with them. They are all very important people to me and I want them in my life. I can't put visits off because you just never know. I want to spend time with them while we are all here and able. I really want to do more for my community, but I haven't decided where I can do the best work. Again, after I am done with school I plan to do some volunteer work. Maybe share some of what I have learned in my classes to help others be more healthy. Psychospiritually I am very weak. I have yet to find my spiritual connection. Before I wasn't really even thinking about it and it wasn't that important to me. But now I realize that it is an essential part of being whole and I really want to find my connection. I do believe in God, but I don't attend church. I may start there. I also really enjoy the outdoors and living in the Pacific Northwest we have beautiful country to explore. I hope to find ways to spend more time outdoors and I think I will start with hiking and kayaking. Both are easily accessible here. I have a long way to go in this aspect of my life, but at least now I am conscious of its importance. Meditation is another thing that I tend to incorporate regularly into my life.
If anyone has any suggestions on developing psychospiritually, please let me know. I am open to anything really. Thank you.
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Amy,
ReplyDeleteI wish I had a easy answer for you in regard to developing on a psychospiritual level but I do not. That is an individual thing and it is something that will develop deep within and will find a way to reveal itself to you. One of the things that has helped me is to write in my journal. In my journal I can pour out my soul and I never let anyone read it. You will be surprised at what it will reveal to you. You also have the lovely outdoors. Start there in the fresh air and sunshine. Spend time meditating and talking to God. He will answer if you just take the time to listen. It will come in the smallest, quietest voice. When the time is right you will hear it. Church is the best place to start.
Margaret
Amy,
ReplyDeleteI did not find it difficult to choose which personal integral assessment needed the most improvement. I too was once a "health nut" and very cautious of all that went in my body. However, life's unexpected situations have a way of changing your path and redirecting your assessment goals. My biological growth is no longer in my control and I have comes to terms with that. My interpersonal health is what concerns me the most. I worry about my family, my freinds, my future and all that encompases my interpersonal health. And I see it falling by the way side related to my current circumstances. Although, you seem to have a handle on most areas of integral assessment and seemingly are in positive light as a result. It is great that you are aware of your weaknesses and know what needs to be done to help grow in that area in order to have an improved quality of life.
Hi Amy,
ReplyDeleteI like that you mentioned how just a kind word or act of kindness can make a big difference. How true. By living your best, doing what you can, and working towards flourishing yourself, you inadvertently help others. Showing that you care is a great start. Being connected to others and encouraging are great ways to branch out. I think that at different times, are strengths will tend to vary. I understand that being so busy can make it hard to develop certain aspects, but it is good that you are trying and are aware of what you need, and it sounds like you are doing pretty well. I also understand about spending time with family. Time passes so very quickly. It is very important. I am sure the volunteer work will come to you. I also want to do more of that. Best wishes on the spiritual aspect. Just be patient, pray, and think positively, and it will all come together for you. I know how frustrating that can be. I have found that having a good church family helps immensely. Best wishes.
Mentally we forget how our friends can help our mental health, just as you have I put my friends on the back burner while I complete my schooling. I am nearly complete and started hanging out with my friends, I forgot the fun we had and found myself more relaxed mentally and physically. I have recently have set time on the weekend to go out to bars, beaches, and social areas where my friends and I enjoy. These exercises allows me to see how important it is to be mentally and physically healthy and not let issues mentally drain me; practicing organizational skills and relaxation methods has improved my mental and physical well being.
ReplyDeleteYour right even just noticing someone or being nice to the throughout the day can make a difference in someones life. It could even make them think..hey I want to me more like her and have happiness in my life :-)
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