The mind seems to have an endless supply of things to do. The mind can jump from one thing to another all day, even with dreams while we sleep.
Mind-chatter, or as the Buddhists call it ‘monkey mind’, is one of the big challenges individuals face.
Almost every day I get the questions like, “How do I manage stress?” or “How do I manage anxiety?” As we walk through the background of how they got to the place of stress and anxiety becoming overwhelming, it comes down to one thing, thinking based on fear. The chatter in the mind becomes about fear of what will happen with the economy, other drivers, the elections, the census, work, 2012, earthquakes, genocide, history, future, bills, taxes, and….you get the picture.
When the list is so long and the problem to the point of breaking, where do you begin? I offer that I begin with myself. I begin by taking a look at what I am feeding my mind and what is feeding these thoughts
Many years ago, I took away as many fear-feeders as I could. For two-weeks, I turned off the TV, the radio, and I limited my email to work and 30-minutes a day personal. I will tell you there was a lot of silence and free time. I set the intention that this space was filled with goodness.
The space was filled with things that I learned from by reading and meeting new people in the community. With only my day to discuss, my conversations focused on life, love and connecting on deeper levels with people around me. It became a calm that has lasted and is my lifestyle today.
When the TV came back on, which it did, I made different choices about what I wanted to see and invite in to my house.
It has come to feel like television is now the monkey-mind of the planet. TV programs are like “thoughts”. Will there ever be “thoughts” like, “Kindness in Action” where we see people do nice things. Perhaps, if enough people want it, it can happen. Then again, it could already be happening with the Oprah Network which is supposed to have a lot of inspiring programs.
Until then, I will begin where I am right now; enjoy adding more positive influence to myself, my home and my life.
Perhaps you will take a no-TV/radio personal break. See what happens when you start hearing your self loud and clear.
- Brian
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Brian,
I have been the Queen of Monkey Mind in my time. And I actually got rid of my cable quite a while back. I finally realize it is about the right minded distractions aka the good distractions. Reading, listening to led meditations, spending time in nature, etc.To take the time, no matter what, to sit quietly!!!! You reminded me of that by starting with self. I like the intention of space filled with goodness/Love. I have commented lately to friends how nothing really upsets me anymore. Once in a while the Monkey Mind interupts this calm.It is a reminded that it is time for me to go quietly into myself. Blessings.
Lucia