Illnesses of the Mind

As I was driving yesterday, I received a thought that went something like this: 

“Illnesses of the mind, such as anxieties and depression are a sign and symptom of a mind run amok”.

Meaning that a mind out of touch and out of balance with the rest of the human dimensions (body, mind, heart and soul) creates illnesses of the mind.

When the mind has become the sole thing relied upon for guidance; when one has forgotten to rely on one’s deeper heart for true guidance and knowing, then one becomes lost in the woods of the mind, so to speak.

The mind left in charge of it all, one’s life purpose, one’s decisions and goals, gets into trouble. It is like having a navigator of a plane without the pilot on board.

The mind fully and completely cannot lead the way and get you there safely.

We are encouraged to spend quiet time each day tuning into that part of ourselves, in our deeper heart, beyond our feelings, where true knowing and guidance reside.

A simple exercise to try at home or any quiet place:

Think of a question you might have, or something you need guidance on. Something that is out of the league for your mind, or that your mind just cannot answer.

Sit comfortably eyes closed, legs and arms uncrossed. Begin tuning into the flow of your breath wave. Inhaling in peace, and exhaling any tension. Continue this process until you feel your body relax and your mind soften, perhaps 2 -10 minutes. Then, drop your awareness into your heart center located in the center of your chest, and breathe into and out of this center for 1-5 minutes. Imagine light flowing in and out of this center, and feel an expansiveness in your heart center. When this occurs, ask your question. And sit quietly to receive the answer, without judgement.

Be well. Be uplifted!

Karine Johnston