The Subtle Mind

1.        Compare and contrast the Loving Kindness exercise and the Subtle mind exercise. Explain your experience including the benefits, frustrations etc.

I do not feel that I exhibited the same experience as I did with the Loving- Kindness exercise. It was harder to concentrate and keep a focal point. I’m not sure if it’s because I did not find the voice soothing and it penetrated a negative point in my mind that shifted the energy or if it was the time of day that I tried to practice "The Subtle Mind exercise".  Or, perhaps I am so used to having my children voices around that being in too much of a quiet area was a distraction for me.  I am not sure...

My experience with the Kind- Loving exercise was completely different. My reflections were deeper and I literally could feel the brother’s and father’s suffering being inhaled and exhaled with love, compassion, and patience for them.  I wanted to heal their suffering.  I was aware, and felt concentrated on my reflection and awareness, whereas, with the subtle mind exercise I felt a bit distracted and empty.

I did however, pay attention to my body. At first, I was a bit tense and sat leaning forward. As the exercise continued my body began to become into a more relaxed state of mind and my posture released itself and became more relaxed not leaning forward anymore. 

2.        Discuss the connection of the spiritual wellness to mental and physical wellness. Explain how the connection is manifested in your personal life. 

Since I could not gain a sense of connection to my spiritual wellness, mental and physical wellness I do not feel I can contribute fully to a truthful answer. I did not experience a connection of spiritual, mental, and physical wellness. 

I would love to hear abou your experience and tips on how to make this exercise a bit more rewarding for me. 

Thanks in advance,

Ana H.