By Lisa Price
Many people have questioned the ‘point’ of mindfulness. I believe that by practicing mindfulness we are merely aiming to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves. Without judgment. Without expectation. And without criticism.
The goal is not for the mind to not think but rather for us to not attach ourselves to the thoughts that arise, and simply observe them. It is this detached observation that we are practicing. There is no right or wrong way to practice. Each individual’s experience will differ. Each session may differ from the day before. It is through this practice of daily meditation that mindfulness finds it’s way into our everyday lives.
What we practice whilst sitting still begins to influence our thoughts and behaviors as we navigate our life. We learn not to judge ourselves, or others, not to attach ourselves to expectations but rather to explore our world with a sense of curiosity.
Many people think that they are “no good” at mindfulness or that they “can’t” do it. They often express that they “cannot stop themselves from thinking”. However, the mind is designed to think and we are not attempting to stop that. I prefer to view the practice of mindfulness as a training of the mind. A caring for the mind, if you like, in the way that many people walk, run, or go to the gym daily to care for their body. That is why it consists of a daily practice of learning detachment. Through this daily practice you create the space to simply be.
What more is there?
Lisa teaches at Flourish Family Chiropractic and Wellbeing in Seddon. For more information contact 9689 9136.
