Thoughts Evaporate...

"The thought you are having now will evaporate, probably in moments. Thoughts are like that - they come and go, so there's usually no need to take them terribly seriously.  Observe and move on."

Padraig O'Morian

Sometimes I am truly shocked at how quickly my thoughts and moods can change;  they really do eb and flow and rarely last for much time.

Today I had anxiety in the morning before work - off for 4 days and wondering how things would be after a long weekend I suspect. I knew that by the time I arrived at work - literally an hour away - it would dissipate and crumble into nothing.

There are times when I question my thought - why am I thinking this!  I am quick to judge myself with catastrophic and black and white thinking:  "why do I always expect the worst".  Truth is, it was only one thought...and it means very little.

Do I recognize all the great thoughts I have?  Do I appreciate the times of peace, joy and empathy I feel?

I believe there might be some merit in not putting too much weight into our emotions or  what we think.  They seem to be very fluid.  They will change.  Who knows what we will think or feel later today, tomorrow or in a week!  The only constant in our lives is that things will always change.

When things are challenging - be it a thought or feeling - knowing that there is a real possibility of feeling or thinking differently can be a great comfort.

Nameste

Pain vs Suffering

"… we can distinguish between the normal pain of life – difficult emotions, physical discomfort, and so on – and actual suffering, which is the mental anguish caused by fighting against the fact that life is sometimes painful." Kristin Neff, Self Compassion

We will have pain and discomfort.  However there is always some control in the amount of thinking we give these states.  We can choose NOT to suffer.  

Nameste

Working out isn't just for the body....

“Each time you bring yourself back to the breath is a moment of training. This is how the heart and mind learn to move from a stage of habitual and reactive distraction to one that’s more responsive, creative, and aware.“ Vidyamala Burch

It is interesting what I will accept;  If want to get in shape - train for a 5 mile run - I will simply have to do the work! 

Why is peace of mind, mental and emotional health any different?  Do I think I'll will my way into a happier state of being?  Do I just decide not to have anxiety anymore? 

Of course not!  It's work.  Very simple.  I am in training!  Just because I don't gain weight or start getting winded on the stairs doesn't mean I am "fit" mentally. 

Everything worth something requires effort, dedication and faith. Improving myself and dealing with my own issues has been the hardest work I will ever do!  

Just like with physical health, there is continued maintenance required. 

Meditate today!  Journal.  Practice a mindfulness exercise.  These things will keep you sane!  These things will allow you to be free. 

Nameste