In present times, we humans spend most of our days being stuck in the past or worried about the future; Yet, we feel too distracted to surrender in the presence. Life becomes colorless, restless, a battlefield of comparison. We might end up losing connection to our own truth.
Our minds' thoughts end up being the reflection of life - one's personal reality, or illusion - the choice is ours. Whatever happens within our mind – our inner world – is reflected in our feelings and behaviors - our external world - and most likely also in the way we appear to others.
If we think we are free, we feel free; if we feel free, we behave freely. But if we carry negative thoughts with us, it will make us feel bad; if we feel bad, we will behave badly.
Do you recognize the pattern? Our thoughts are a reflection of who we are.
In traditional Chinese culture, it is held to the belief that "the chi flows where the mind goes". No matter whether the mind creates conscious or unconscious assumptions about life, they'll undoubtedly end up impacting who we want to be and where we want to go. Through self-inquiry and self-awareness, we do not only learn what our bodies needs, but we also learn to grasp how our mind functions and how we can alter our mindset to cultivate positive change.
We - you and me - our body and mind, greatly benefit from practicing mindfulness, like yoga, meditation, or pranayama (breathwork). Both, "Prana" in Sanskrit and "Chi" in traditional Chinese culture, are equivalent to the life force energy that is cultivated through the breath – the underrated yet holy breath. There is a whole body of knowledge on breathwork techniques. It's truly fascinating. Practicing such techniques fosters (self-)awareness, and allows you to tune into our body and influence the nervous system. This, in turn, helps to categorize thoughts as either fruitful or self-destructive.
By learning to master the mind, cultivating satisfactory thoughts becomes a tangible idea. We become our minds' observer while simultaneously learning to be present at the moment.
Seemingly simple, but for many a lifelong practice. But hey, the path is the goal, right?
To my friend Nina, for spending a wonderful day with me and sharing her beautiful being for these visuals. Thank you.