Now, before your story about not being able to medicate comes up – give me five more minutes of your time!
The Art of Doing Nothing is not asking you to clear your mind, chant some mystic mantra and try not to think about anything else. Let’s be honest, unless you’re a Buddhist Monk, the possibility of ‘not thinking of something’ is virtually impossible. With all the questions we constantly asks ourselves throughout the day, how on earth can anyone completely turn that inner voice off?
But that’s the great thing about the Art of Doing Nothing. Your mind has permission to do, ask and question what ever it wants – with no judgement or expectation.
All you have to do is sit (or lay) for a period of time, listen, acknowledge and accept whatever comes up in your mind. And let me tell you – things will come up! Random things! Each thought, emotion or question zipping in and out of your mind without your consent, may make you laugh, cry, get angry, feel ashamed, bring you joy, get you excited or make you happy.
But that’s the beauty of the practice.
6 Comments
Polly Mattia
I have been reading a wonderful book on this subject: mindfulness, a practical guide to finding peace in a frantic world by mark williams. It was prescribed to a friend of mine through her gp.
It has a sound cloud for guided meditations, which really helps with awareness on those wandering thoughts: https://m.soundcloud.com/hachetteaudiouk/meditation-2-the-body-scan?in=%2Fhachetteaudiouk%2Fsets%2Fmindfulness-a-practical-guide-to-finding-peace-in-a-frantic-world
Polly Mattia
Also, with regard to peace of mind, I asked everyone in the office whether they would rather live in a small abode but have complete peace of mind or a huge luxury pad but always feel incomplete and unsatisfied… I was absolutely flabbergasted that every single person went for the house. What would you choose???
Chantelle - I Am Brazen Spirit
Wow – they chose the luxury pad!!! I would take piece of mind over everything – please give me the small abode. (Also, there will be less cleaning!! lol)
Chantelle - I Am Brazen Spirit
Thank you Polly. I’m going to check out that book! Thank you for sharing the link. x
Marie Elenora Thomas
Dear Chantelle,
Each week I read your blog and it really makes me think most times before I open my mouth.
I do enjoy my own space at doing nothing, top of the list.
So good to make time for yourself every weekend. I will also keep taking off the ole clothes and finding time for myself.
Keep up the blog enjoys every word written.
Chantelle - I Am Brazen Spirit
Thank you Marie. So glad my words are having an impact. I’m so glad you are finding time for yourself. x