Creating connections
Connect on a deeper level with others through mindfulness.
(Mind, Focus, Relationships)
Increase consciousness and mindfulness.
Close your eyes and imagine a person you care about sitting right in front of you. Imagine looking at and interacting with this person. Study them. Take note of these following emotional responses. Write down what you came up with for each one.
1. Openness
2. Empathy
3. Compassion
4. Loving kindness
5. Sympathetic joy
6. Equanimity
Developing these qualities is a way to channel your energy's and building stronger and healthier relationships. These attitudes are interdependent; each influences the other and by cultivating one you cultivate them all. Feel free to try this with any considerable relationship you have.
Flowers, S. H. (2010). MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION ACTIVITIES WORKBOOK
Flowing water
Concentration can help you expand. Try this exercise for a stronger mind.
(Focus, Concentration, Peace)
Relax body and mind. Produces beneficial negative ions, reduces mental chatter.
1. Sit somewhere near flowing water.
2. Begin to breeze normally and focus on the sound of the water for five minutes. Try to empty your mind of all thoughts. If thoughts come to mind, go back to focusing on the flowing water.
3. With each in breath, allow the sound of water to deepen your relaxation. Notice if you feel better physically or mentally when you are next to flowing water.
4. When you feel ready, and your meditation. Drink a large glass of water, and remind yourself to drink more throughout the day.
Do this as many times as you need to during the week.
Gauding, M. (2009). The meditation bible (1st ed.). London: Godsfield.
Photo by Ahmed Saffu