Winter this year has given me ample reflection time to observe how learning and practicing mindfulness, meditation, and the principles of MBSR have brought me closer to my journey for peace inside and out. I want to share some of what I found out about myself.
I am more patient. My reactivity has significantly diminished. I am calmer and move more slowly and thoughtfully. When I’m disturbed, I practice S.T.O.P. (Stop & still, Take a breath, Observe, Proceed). I am attuned to my part of interactions that don’t go well. I am not afraid to ask for forgiveness or to give it when I’m not my best self. I don’t take things personally. I am far more aware in general because I am a better listener because I am quieter both inside and out.
I am more human BE-ing than human DO-ing. Joy!
Meditation can generate three kinds of energy according to Thich Nhat Hanh: mindfulness, concentration, and insight. These are the three gems of learning deep awareness. It’s kind of like mastering a new piano piece after months of practice. The feeling is cohesive, sublime, and restful. We can experience happiness. It’s liberating.
We will all experience suffering. The word ‘dukkha’ in Buddha’s Pali language more accurately translates to unease, discomfort, or pain. It’s simply the human condition. But when we embrace the energies of mindfulness, concentration, and insight, “we can embrace and take care of that suffering and nourish happiness at the same time.”
That’s the life I want. Living in balance with happiness and discomfort. Living peacefully with mindful awareness. That’s freedom.
“Calmness of mind does not mean you should stop your activity. Real calmness should be found in activity itself. We say, “It is easy to have calmness in inactivity, it is hard to have calmness in activity, but calmness in activity is true calmness.”
– Shunryu Suzuki, Soto Zen monk teacher, author Zen Mind, Beginners Mind
“If you always want to be comfortable you will always be out of balance.”
– Peter Sonnenberg, School of Vibrational Healing