Unit 9

I have to say, this class has been awesome! Not only did I learn a great deal, but it also served as a therapy. I really valued the reflections on mental, physical and spiritual health. This helped me assess my current state and allow room for improvement in each of these areas.

Maria,

Unit 8

The two exercises that really resonates with me are the loving-kindness and the visualization of meeting asclepius. I have been able to utilize each one in a very practical way that has manifested positively in my life. With the loving-kindness practices I am able to deal with others in a more gentle caring way. Even individuals that are difficult to deal with on a daily basis. I am able to see the good qualities in them and ignore the negative aspects of their character. This exercise also has allowed me to be more sensitive to all of humanity not just the people I love and am close to. In addition, the meeting asclepius exercise has helped me visualize the flourishing individual I can be. I am able to seek myself as a person who possesses wisdom, love, kindness to help others. This connection has given me a sense of true freedom, and brought me closer to God. Realizing that he has instilled that passion and truth, and we just need to believe we are capable and allow it to flourish and serve our purpose in this life time.

Maria,

Unit 7

The "Meeting Asciepious" exercise was definitely very helpful. It really allowed me to look within myself to find the strength, wisdom and loving-kindness needed to continue to flourish. The exercise reminds me of how every individual on the planet serves a purpose, and how they also possess these treasures. The mindfulness practices have also helped me tremendously. I have always been a very spiritual person, but these exercises have brought me even closer to the source (God).

The saying "one cannot lead where one has not gone himself", is just that. How can I/practitioner lead or direct someone without first knowing how to get there and what is to be expected. Of course, considering the spiritual realm of our existence. I agree with the points the texts makes regarding patient and physician relationships. They are disconnected because of insurance and money issues. Through a more integral approach, this relationship can become more meaningful and beneficial for all individuals involved in the healing process.

Maria,

Unit 6 Assessment

The meditation/mantra was very powerful. While chanting those words I felt frustration and resentment practically melt away. I was able to feel extend loving-kindness to the individuals that have influenced these negative thoughts within me. I no longer felt the need to hold on to those negative emotions, and didn't feel as passionate about them. It became easier to dwell on what I could do to make these individuals feel happier and healthier.

I found the assessment to be a very useful tool. I gave me the opportunity to discover what area in my life is needing attention. I realized that my focus should be on further developing my physical fitness. I understand that doing some type of exercise will help build that aspect. Also, the benefits of nurturing my physical self will manifest in my mental and spiritual health as well.

Maria,

Unit 5 blog exercise

The subtle mind exercise was very helpful. It was just as helpful as the loving-kindness exercise. They both focused on quieting the mind and letting go of busy thoughts that can distort the clarity and stillness of the mind. They were different in that the loving-kindness exercise demonstrated how letting go of our ego can free us by extending true loving-kindness to others. The subtle mind exercise made us more aware of the two aspects of the mind, which are; the clear and still mind, and the busy untamed mind. It also delved into the three levels of the subtle mind; the witnessing mind, the calm-abiding mind and unity consciousness.

The connection between spiritual wellness to mental and physical wellness is the evolution and progression that comes from connecting with the spiritual realm. Awareness of the spirit allows room the mind to develop deeper more meaningful functions, which in turn affects the physical body. Personally, when I am more connected spiritually I feel happier, more positive moods. Thus, also experiencing better physical and emotional health.

Maria,

Unit 4 Response to mental workout

I found the exercise very helpful. It is amazing to me how unaware of myself I can be. It allowed me to reflect on how I treat others and my perception of them. For instance, during the exercise, I visualize certain individuals that I don't really get along with. I was able to actually feel empathy and loving-kindness towards them. It's really powerful! I understand how the mental workout aspect will continue to benefit me in carrying that subtle, peaceful state of mind.

Also, the research associated with contemplative practice substantiates the fact that our brains are very plastic. Meaning, we can rewire it to benefit us in every aspect of our lives. So, participating in a mental workout routine will allow us to further our integral growth.

Maria,

Unit 3 Journal Post

Based on a scale of 1-10 I would rate my current well being as follows:

1. A-Physical: 5
B-Spiritual: 7
C-Psychological: 8

2. The goal I have set is to obtain optimum well being in all three aspect of health. My hope is to achieve a rating of 8-10 on all three.

3. To improve my physical health, I will begin exercising at least 3 times a week.
To enhance my spiritual health, I will meditate for a duration of 10 to 20 minutes instead of 5 to 10 minutes. Lastly, I believe that enhancing my physical and spiritual health will have a positive influence in my psychological health. As a result, also optimizing my psychological health.

4. The relaxation exercise was very helpful. I definitely felt relaxed and in a much better mood. I do enjoy guided meditation, but I kind of wish he would give the explanations before he actually begins doing the exercise. Because as I was feeling centered and aware of consciousness, It would get interrupted when he would begin to give explanations or make other comments. However, I was able to let those thoughts escape and continue on with the exercise, and benefit from its intentions.

Maria,