For some reason, all through this class I have been finding some really identical principles between the contemplative practices as described by Dacher and others with what my Christian faith teaches me. As i doing this week practice, I focused on the one person who is my model and my savior. I was able to go through the process and it is indeed true that although there are still some distracting thoughts here and there throughout the process, by focusing on Jesus, I could feel the deeper relaxation and the deeper feeling of the mind leaving the outer confused state to the deeper calm abiding state. I believe that Dacher is right when he says that it will take time and also finding a good teacher to be able to attain the level of inner peace he described but I also believe that it will depend on where the person is in their psychospiritual journey. By taking time daily to incorporate contemplative practices, exercising and proper nutrition as well as developing good and healthy relationships, I believe that integral health within reach.
I would find it really hard to make any positive change in my life if for example I go to a doctor with an addiction issue and then learn that the doctor is addicted as I am and yet he is givimg me all these tips on how to overcome my addictions. the question I would ask is how can the tips work on me if they have not worked on him. The same would apply in integral health and since a teacher should be knowledgeable than the students, we should also seek to go where we would want our clients to go. That would only happen if we practice the principles of integral health and make all efforts to attain and thus be a worthy guide to our clients. I am making the necessary steps that will help me develop wellness in my body, mind and spirit.
David,
ReplyDeleteI have also seen many similarities in contemplative practices and my faith practices as well. It seems as if people try to explore ways to achieve spirituality (essential to integral health and human flourishing) without involving God. In my opinion, that is not possible. I know that is a bold statement as many would disagree with it, but it amazes me how similar the desired qualities are of a flourishing human to a "flourishing" Christian. For me, I am relieved not to have to rely fully on myself since I am not perfect, but that I can rely on a God that, I believe, can take my health beyond anything that I can imagine. This exercise was a little strange for me though because when I was thinking of someone wise, I thought of my grandfather who passed away over ten years ago, and I felt sadness and then it just didn't feel right when it was suggested to be in communion with him. Thanks for a great post!
Amy
Hi David,
ReplyDeleteWhen we talk about spirituality, it truly does have a plethora of definitions. For some it may be meditation, yoga, or reflection but for Christians, it is about Jesus. I have not been a Christian my entire 43 years but I did become one when I was 34 and my life has not been the same since. Although I do not judge others for their form of spirituality, I could not imagine mine without Him. This class certainly has given us an opportunity to reflect on our relationship with Him and I appreciate you sharing your journey with all of us.
Jacqui
David,
ReplyDeleteYou would be amazed at what can actually help you that might not actually help others. Everyone is so very different and that reflects on how they deal with things as well, what works well for someone might not work well for you but the reverse might also be true for other things. Your post really did get me thinking about a lot of things though which I think might actually be things I need to work out in my life at this point in time. Hope you have a good week.
Hi David,
ReplyDeleteI agree that the exercise this week allowed us to focus more on our spirituality. As we focus on this we can feel the close loving relationship that helps us to go forward into the world and do what it is we need to do. I believe that by being able to feel this and experience this ourselves we will be able to share this with our clients. The old adage our parents used on us " do as I say not as I do" does not work when you are trying to help someone reach integral health. You must share from experience and insight.
Have a blessed week,
Anne Marie