Mental Health Indiana

Taken to a level beyond the momentary crisis, this same idea expands to encompass the idea of stopping, just when the demands of life seem most immediate, and taking the time to re-charge and re-focus.  This "intentional idleness" may be a moment of quiet self-care, a few minutes of relaxation in the midst of stress, a time not to plan (which is just mental "doing") but to let go of all the demands and just settle back into yourself and let your soul and body be restored.  

In practice, this can look like taking just 10 minutes for you. (Aren't you worth that?).  Set a timer so you don't have to worry about the time.  Then sit down, close your eyes, relax and just notice your breathing.  Many thoughts will come in.  That's fine.  Just thank them and let them go, assuring them that in a few minutes you will give them the attention they want.  For now however, just keep letting go and noticing your breathing and the feeling of your body relaxing.  That is all there is to it.  The challenge is to stay with it, allowing yourself to relax as much as you can, and don't worry if you get distracted.  It is said that the great teacher Raam Daas has said that if your mind wanders 10,000 times and you bring it back 10,001, then your meditation is successful. 

John Goll is an Indiana Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). He helps couples, families and individuals understand the patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors that keep them from having the relationships and the successes that they desire, while working with them to mobilize their ability and power to make the choices and changes that will make a real difference in their lives. 

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