Most of us are very aware of how we feel when something doesn't go as planned, but do we listen to what we are feeling and what we tell ourselves when things are working? A great training session, accomplishments, effective communication or effortless flow during the day, these are all great opportunities to pay attention, to listen and determine what contributed to a positive outcome.
Sifu Brinker touched briefly on this in our last IHC meeting which really got me to thinking how true that is for me. It is easy to focus more on the negative which is why practicing gratitude is so important and has help me. What if I was to go a step further? What if I made a conscious effort and really listened with more than my ears? Listen to my body and my mind.
Interesting, because at first I saw this as a way to replicate and accomplish more. And I also recognized the added value of deepening my awareness and mindfulness practice. All of this can be true and yet as I contemplate and did some research, I discovered more. I'm understanding this concept of deeper and more intentional listening as a tool to cutting through the repetition of my life and moving closer to my true authentic self.
Connecting with my true self will help me to embrace who I am and move past my ego mind. When I am connected with my true self I can be in a state of co-operation, peace and calmness. This way of being is expansive and powerful and also humble at the same time.
How do I develop my listening skills and connect with my true self?
I will continue to practice mindfulness throughout my day. This was one of my personal goals for the Year of the Rabbit. I didn't have much success with this so I've included it for next year as well.
My mindfulness practice now includes the following:
Where am I, what am I doing? - Practice observation and connect with the present moment.
Meditate - Practice openness and curiosity around thoughts and emotions.
Mindful breathing - can include deep breathing or specific breathing patterns.
Yoga - a great way to connect with and listen to my body. Our bodies talk to us and help us to step away from our ego mind.
Quality time with myself - Do something I love, dance or be creative.
Be in nature - Breath in fresh air, hug a tree, walking meditation
That simple strand of spaghetti stuck and slowly grew into a substantial pasta dinner that has the potential to feed me for a lifetime!
Totals
Push ups: 1282/36092
Situps: 1250/35920
Hand form: 36/709
Weapon form: 35/635
KM: 35/1446
AOK: 65/1354
Sparring: 4/700
Blogs: 1/54
Yoga: 1/35.5
I love what you said in the beginning about us being critical as a way to learn and improve from failures, but also trying to do the same during successes as a way to improve as well! Great blog
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