The experience with this exercise was very interesting, as I was thinking about the person at the beginning of the meditation the only person I could really think of was my wife. At first when I was instructed to do so I thought it would be fitting to pick someone older but I knew the person for me would be a female. However my wife was the only person I could think of and I rolled with that and the thoughts that I was imagining during the exercise were very interesting in the events and the environments that I saw myself in and saw her in. Meditation has really opened up my mind and giving me peace at times but not in a relaxing way but as a way to take all of my busy thoughts and set them free in an healthy environment. Using meditation during times of stress for me will not be for relaxation but as a way to clear my mind and become more clear on my decision making.
"One cannot lead another where one has not gone himself," this is a very true quote not only in life but in the profession that I am in. It is hard for a person to really buy into the concept that you are presenting to them they need to know that you practice what you preach. If you are in the field of living a healthy life style and the decisions you make for you own life do not reflect that, you will have a hard time gaining the trust and attention of your patients. Also, yes you are obligated to your patients, improving in your psychologically, physically, and spiritually health will only further your professional help that you are providing to your patients.
Keith.. I agree with your post. You cannot present yourself to clients and tell them to live a healthy lifestyle if you yourself are not practicing and living that way.. If you are doing things such as smoking, not exercising, and showing the outward signs of obesity the client is not likely to take your advice seriously.
ReplyDeleteKeith,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you completely about the meditation as a means for clearing your mind/improving decision-making and about "practicing what you preach." Unfortunately, some people just do not understand that. The GM of my gym comes into the gym lobby eating McDonald's, Wendy's, snack cakes, etc. It always ticks me off. I find it ridiculous that he is running a gym and openly consuming food that is *knowingly* terrible for your health. What kind of example is that setting? I agree that clients/patients will trust you less if they see you are not following the same advice you are giving. I would not take advice from someone who would not follow it themselves. That seems like common sense to me (although these days it is more like "uncommon" sense).
Keith, choosing your wife is so special! That says a lot about your admiration for her and the strength of her character. I think it is so special! Have you considered practicing the intimacy and spiritual union exercise (Dacher, p. 92)? This was my first thought when I read your publication.
ReplyDeleteI agree that one cannot lead another were one has not gone himself. That would be the blind leading the blind. Practicing integral health involves expressing patience, loving kindness, and compassion for others; and you cannot fate a feeling. If you haven't experienced it, then your true colors will show.
Lola L
I believe that you should practice what you preach and if you don’t do so I believe that you will have a hard time connecting with your clients. It will be hard for your clients to even take what you say seriously. I also think that meditation is a great way to help clear your mind and make you at peace with things.
ReplyDeleteAshley Teska
I think that it is beautiful that your wife is what came to mind for you.... it says a lot I think.
ReplyDeleteI find that my times of meditation are also used to find clarity in moments of stress. When I am at work surrounded by a brood of different energy and chaos sets in, I close my eyes and breathe. Sometimes it is for just a few short deep breaths, but it is enough to pull myself in.
Be well, Autumn