Tibetan Sand Mandala
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uazRvR9p0w
One of my favorite things I used to do is to attend the Universal Light Expo, held in Columbus, OH each year in October. http://www.universeexpo.com/
Even though it can get quite crowded, and there is much to see and do, I make it a point to wander over to watch the progress of the Sand Mandala created by Tibetan Monks, if anyone has watched this being done it is a very worthwhile experience, and for me you can almost stand and meditate while watching their discipline even with the crowd all around.
The Healing Mandala, is said to have positive energy within them and the energy is generated to all those that view it. The monks chant and ask for healing blessings, and by the end of the 2 day expo it is completed and blown away to spread healing blessings even further. I have got to make it another expo next year!
I kinda would have enjoyed making our own Mandala's for this course they can be beautiful as well as personal.
The comparison of the "subtle mind", as I understand it involves using distinctive breathing techniques to assist with quieting your mind in order to focus.
Although the distraction of wondering thoughts interfere with the practice, in time it will be easier to get these distractions to fade and eventually not be allowed to interfere with the meditation.
With the love and kindness exercise, the focus is geared towards the health and wellness of those that you care for and love and sometimes those that you simply wish well.
The theory behind love and kindness is to absorb the loving thoughts you have for others into your meditation practice, as it will allow you to take in their suffering or circumstances and turn them into positive energies, sending that back out into the world.
I believe the key to developing spiritual, physical, and mental wellness is finding the method that works for you but has ultimate goal of giving you inner peace.
I have long been on that quest to find what works, but it has pertty much left me with a lot of interest and hobbies. However, more and more I am finding that the physical self is not bouncing back as quickly such being able to function on very little sleep. And I do believe that this lack of sleep and no doubt added responsiblities tend to affect virtually everything else that I do and think.
So, I realize now that a starting point for me is dealing with getting adequate rest, and yes excercise.
Hi Debra. I always find your stories about different places you have been and things that you have experienced interesting. I am from Columbus, so I know what you are talking about. I also need to start an exercise regimen, however, I am getting better with the exercises which is encouraging. I think part of the benefit this week was the fact that the primary focus was breathing. I often do breathing exercises on my own time when I am feeling stressed out, so I can certainly appreciate the goals.
ReplyDeleteI have also been on a long quest to create wellness within myself and find inner peace. I agree that I haven't found true mind-body-spirit health, however, I have also picked up many interests and activities in the process. I think that this is probably just my journey and I will get there, it just might take the rest of my life (and I am ok with that). Good post as usual :-)
Hi Debra -
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing the link for the sand mandala - how awesome! I would love to see one being made with their intricate designs and outrageous colors.
I have been trying to use these breathing techniques at work. I work in a stressful environment and it seems to be helping to take a step back from these situations and take a moment.
I am amazed at how much I have learned and how much I have changed after taking my classes. My diet and lifestyle has already changed for the better. Like you, if my journey takes the rest of my life so be it. After all, what would our lives be like if we were not in a constant state of flux?
Debra - I just love your stories, thank you so much for sharing. I agree with you in that we have to find what works for ourselves. It's just like losing weight. Diet and excercise is the best way to do it. But if your going to commit, you have to find the right diet and right exercise to fit your needs. I think therein lies part of the problem. It's always about finding the right balance.
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