My dear friends,

The theme for session 7 is How can I best take care of myself?
 


In class we looked at how we can use skilful action to take care of ourselves in the face of challenge and to cultivate joy and wellbeing. We can learn to respond to challenges, first by learning our personal patterns of mind and then responding with intentional skilful action.
In this way we can cultivate the mind in ways that support joy and flourishing.
 


After taking a Breathing Space, we can learn to take care of ourselves by deciding to do something that:

– is pleasurable, or

– gives a sense of mastery or achievement, or

– provides a clear focus for mindfulness or do something mindfully

– do nothing
 


We also noted the need for re-balancing our lives, feelings and emotions remembering that we can at any time bring pleasant memories, friends and lovely places in to mind and feel the warmth of comfort.

Tension in the body leads to tension in the mind. Here is a little guided practice I use now and then when I have a busy mind. It is specifically for tension release, see if this is of use.
 



As a reminder of your personal patterns, you might want to revisit your

– Working Wisely with Reactivity worksheet from Session 4 in your manual,;

– Top Ten Negative Thought Patterns and Responding Skilfully worksheet from Session 6

– As well as the Daily Activities worksheet you completed during class in Session 7
 


Home practise:

– read the course handbook for session 7

– complete your practise record

– make your own choices form the different practices we have used during the programme to establish a pattern of daily formal practice.

– Use the Three-Step Breathing Space both regular and responsive whenever you notice something difficult or delightful arising.

– Continue with your daily mindfulness: 50:50; 10 Finger Gratitude; Experiences Calendar; Mindful Walking and Random Acts of Kindness
 


Also, this little short talk by Professor Mark Williams is lovely and to the point, explaining what happens in the brain and why it works.
Well worth a watch.

With gratitude,
Per Norrgren