Preserve Your Mind and Create Peace

I have a busy mind. I admit I am susceptible to lose control of what occupies my thoughts. Sometimes it is detrimental to my mind body health. I have learned however to recognize them, release the wasteful ones for necessary self-preservation. I take more time to process my reaction, if any. Or simply sweep the "fake" thoughts that want to rent space in my head that create F.E.A.R - False Evidence Appearing Real. It's not a perfect practice although I have improved.

I am not alone. Studies by the National Science Foundation showed that we typically recycle up to 95% of our thoughts of which 80% of those are negative. And a Leahy study found 85% of what we worry about never happens. The 15% of the worries that did happen, 79% said they were able to handle the difficulty better than expected, or that the difficulty taught them a lesson worth learning. Wasteful thoughts evidently.

Preservation relates to the intent of Brahmacharya, the 4th of Patanjali's Yamas for moral behaviors and restraints. It is the conscious action and process to preserve our actions for vitality, free from negative impacts of unhealthy behaviors.

Sanskrit meanings, Brahma is the connection to the divine creator, and Charya is our actions and routines.

Practicing Brahmacharya can be moderation of our thoughts, time spent thinking, and healthy responses to things. What negative thoughts like worry, anger, dissatisfaction, sadness, etc., consume you and cause harm instead of promoting a healthy, happy and quality life? You have the power to replace any detrimental thoughts to a higher, more positive state of consciousness. Think with purpose.

It's ok to say "no" to events, people, any media sources and things that are not in your best mental, emotional, spiritual and physical interest. Say "yes" to reading inspirational quotes, books, speaking and sharing with realistic optimism no matter what comes our way. To things that bring peace of mind.

Upon rising, think of what you wish to happen in your day, for you. Before bedtime reflect on 3 great things that happened today, listen to some meditative music or sounds. And throughout the day, be mindful of what "triggers" you negatively and convert that energy to what you can influence and respond to from a place of love and peacefulness.

Besides managing your mind garden, take time to preserve your energy when needed. More rest, more quiet time, be selective with how, when and where you spend your energy.

Peaceful Gardner,

Gina

Fusion Owner, Registered Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master Teacher, R.N.