In those quiet moments in which we are practicing mindful thinking, sometimes it helps to focus on each area of self that needs attention – really focus and actively listen to anything distressing, so we can figure out how to correct it or, at the very least, make peace with it.
One way in which we can make sure we’re focusing on each separate aspect of self, in turn, is to compartmentalize and think of these as a separate entity equally worth of evaluation. So, we’d separate out our physical, mental, and emotional selves. Then, from there, start with one, pay attention solely to the needs of that part, and slowly make our way across all three.
We might choose to start with the physical, noting any body aches and pains. Centering our thoughts on areas that need attention. We can breathe deeply in and out with our eyes closed, and go inward, noting stiffness in our problem areas that carry the weight of our stress. Maybe we’ll feel our stomach rumbling or our fingers tingling. These are common areas in which we subconsciously carry our burdens. We can consider a plan for tending to each, but for now, we’ll simply acknowledge the existence of discomfort.,
We might move to our current mental state next. Are our thoughts scattered, or have we done a good job of focusing only on the area we’ve compartmentalized and made a decision to zero in on this for a moment or two? Are we frustrated with this process, or are we determined to see it through? Do our thoughts wander to the next task, or can we really focus on our current state? Note any anxiousness, paranoia, lack of ambition or motivation, disinterest, or indifference. What is good and what is bad? How can we work to accept the existence of negative thoughts we cannot control?
Lastly, we’ll shift to your current emotional state. Is it happy, sad, fearful, angry? Do we feel guilty about any behaviors? Do we wish we could change the way we react when emotions are heightened by circumstances which may or may not be within our control? If they are not within our control, what can we do to attempt to welcome calmness and serenity rather than emotional unrest?
As we move, ever so slowly, through these of these present states of self, we begin to have a better understanding of what our minds, bodies, and souls are telling us. What nourishment do each need to continue on this journey? Are we exhibiting aches in our emotional house or in our physical state? Are we still trapped by mental chaos? Where are our pain points?
Understanding how each of these vital pieces fits together and work interdependently to propel us forward into each new day helps us truly appreciate our own complexity and, thus, reminds us of our worth. We are worthy of the work required to heal. And, when everything around us is moving in a million different directions, these internal pieces are still, unchanging and intact. We are in control of them even when everything else seems so uncontrollable.
We must remember that we can only control ourselves. We cannot control others or the world around us. In order to realize peace, we must accept this. Working each day to realign our energy and begin working inward instead of focusing our reserves outward will eventually restore balance because we are choosing to gain a better understanding of what we are actually able to change. Change starts within.