- Describe your experience. Did you find it beneficial? Difficult? Why or why not? Would you recommend this to others? Why or why not?
This was a
very interesting exercise; on the other hand, it kind of put me to sleep. As Dacher
(2006) recommended, I personally did the exercise early in the morning, as my
mind would be clearer; however, that did not work for me. Therefore, I redid
the exercise late afternoon, as I tried to unwind from my busy day. As I went
to the exercise, I found it beneficial, as they were asking to direct loving
kindness to one’s self. Many times, we do not think of us loving our self in
the way that we love others. The exercise allowed me to focus my love that I
have for another on to myself. After a couple of time running through the
exercise, it was easier for me to focus at the task that was being directed
toward. I would recommend this exercise to others as it helps you learn to truly
love one’s self and others.
- What is the concept of "mental workout"? What does the research indicate are the proven benefits of a mental workout? How can you implement mental workouts to foster your psychological health?
A mental
workout out helps us condition our brains in order to achieve greater levels of
consciousness and be more aware of our self (Dacher, 2006). The idea of working
out your brain is similar to working out your body, to where your brain is able
to reach different levels of consciousness. Alongside, as the mind and spirit
are connected, by exercising your brain and releasing negatively, one is better
able to achieve greater levels of human flourishing. Research indicates a
mental workout offer many benefits, as it helps to change the brain’s
circuitry, where functions of the brain, such as memories and attention can be
improved (Dacher). By meditating, focusing on relaxation/breathing, simply
practicing on clearing my mind, I am able to implement mental workouts in order
to improve my psychological health.
Reference
Dacher, E. S. (2006). Integral health: the path
to human flourishing. Laguna Beach: Basic Health
Publications.
Hi Daniel,
ReplyDeleteI think that we need to incorporate these mental workouts into our lives in order to truly experience complete health and wellness. As westerners we never learned to embrace our inner selves so we are like infants learning and as we become more practiced outside interference will not bother us as much.
Hello Daniel,
ReplyDeleteIn response to your first topic, I do also find it beneficial to practice these exercises but if we are not total open and fully aware, we might find ourselves falling asleep trying to practice them, I have to admit I did have a moment where I doze off because of how tranquil I become listening to low tone and nature of the speaker.
-Angel
Hi Daniel,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, I believe most of us have had challenges with remaining focus with these exercise because we lead such busy lives! But I am encouraged with practice you will be a mental Olympian!