In comparing the loving-kindness and the subtle mind practices I can see the benefits of both I do seem to like the subtle mind better as I was able to refocus my mind to my breathing. I noticed at first I was having to really focus yet as I was able to relax and start witnessing the activities that were drawing my attention I was able to let them go and go back to breathing. The mind trails led to my busy schedule and the family. Although I could allow them (my thoughts) to mess the whole calm-abiding practice up if I chose, but with making a commitment to refocus on the breathing and then the quiet, peaceful and serene time, I was able to enjoy calm-abiding state. I am not sure I made it to the unity consciousness state but I think as I continue to try this I shall make it there. Although I kinda like the calm-abiding state even if it was only for a short time.
I really like the idea that it was all about the breathing and that we take our breathing everywhere we go and if we take a minute in our busy days to focus on the breathing the calmness will come and replace the hectic moments. I do deep breathing techniques before stressful meetings or appointments but never thought about doing it during a meeting.
It amazes me how much stress effects the body in the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of the our lives. If taking a few minutes a day to relax and do some loving-kindness and/or subtle mind exercises to combat the effects of stress on the body then why not put that in your schedule. When you can take it with you and apply the techniques anytime anyplace with there is no extra items you need to carry with you it almost seems like a no brainer to try. Wonder why I haven't done this before?
Pam12
Hi Pam, I often wonder the same things after I go into a full blown panic attack or stressful situation I have begun to look back and think why didn't I just relax and breathe. I did get more beneficial effects from the subtle mind practice then the loving kindness. Probably because my mind is always going a hundred miles a minute and this practice taught me how to observe that I had these thoughts but be able to push them aside till there was the appropriate time to address them. THe only time I have ever used similar techniques is when I was focusing on training and/or meditating during cardio sessions. So best of luck when you try this during a meeting. I hope it works well for you.
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