What's Getting in the Way Between Me and Presence
Do you ever feel there is something getting in the way between you and presence—being fully aware and alive in the moment?
This week we’re looking at obstacles—those mind states that get in the way of our being present—of being mindful. Learning to recognize them is the first step in alleviating them. Learning how to use mindfulness to alleviate them follows.
Often it feels like we are in battle when in the throes of these mind states. Using the imagery of battle might be jarring but with it comes a flash of recognition. “Yeah, it does feel like that.” We are at war with our minds.
So what are these mind states that keep us from presence?
Desires of the senses—attachment to sense pleasures. You know, the thrill and excitement of buying stuff, doing stuff, and showing off stuff. We get attached to it. We grasp at it and don’t let go. We get what we want and then we want something else or something more. There is always something more that we have to have.
Dislike, hate, and anger. When these arise we are pushing what doesn’t please us away. We don’t like it. We hate it. We’re angry—get out of here. We feel the energy of pushing it away, turning our back on it or wanting to get rid of it.
Lethargy, laziness or a reluctance or unwillingness to make an effort. How often do we feel stuck or we feel unwilling to move from a position?
Restlessness—the inability to stop the pin ball mind. Racing thoughts and an inability to concentrate on anything characterize this mind state.
Doubt—that feeling of uncertainty and confusion that stops us in our tracks. It doesn’t feel good. Emotions of fear usually arise.
We can free our minds of these states. Using mindfulness and aids to help us enter mindfulness accompanied by loving kindness are the ways that we change these mind states and train our minds not to get caught up in them. We show you how.
I hope you’ll enjoy the show.
And, I’d like to thank the people behind the scenes that make it possible.
Gorgias Romero for original music, audio engineering and production;
Bill Rafferty for technical web support;
Allie Allen for logo and podcast cover design; and
Margaret Haas for announcing the show
Be well. Be mindful.
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The content in the podcast and on this webpage is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical or health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice and guidance of your health professional.
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