On The Road to Psychological Health

I found the experience for both exercises much better than the previous one in unit 3. The voice in these exercises was not as distracting because it wasn't constant, and maybe because it was a female voice. There were long periods of time when the sound of the waves and a distant music were the only thing heard and that was very helpful in staying focused. Every time the voice came on, I lost my focus and I had to work harder to gain focus again. I was surprised to notice that the voice wasn't that bothersome anymore by the end of the second exercise. I did get some relaxation. As they said in the exercise “steel the breath, steel the mind”. If these exercises work for me somehow, I will definitely recommend it to others.

The concept of “mental workout” suggests that we can train the body just like we do the body. Research studies have demonstrated that mental training can transform the mind by reducing disturbing emotions that cause anger, hatred, fear, worry, confusion, and doubt while enhancing positive emotions such as patience, loving-kindness, openness, acceptance, and happiness (Dacher, 2006). For my psychological health, I need to first train my mind to rest and relax. This warrants a daily commitment, just like I do for my physical workout now. Once I master that, I will then, slowly, develop a state of expanded consciousness with loving-kindness and wisdom. The latter are crucial in the healing process and human flourishing. This is going to be a long and challenging journey but it is one that is essential to attain health for my body, mind, soul, and spirit.

Browny.

Dacher, E. (2006). Integral health: The path to human flourishing. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Publications, Inc.