In
researching this topic, I chose to approach it slightly different from my
previous works. Along with using support
documentation, I also chose to observe people around me. My observation revealed that quite a few
people do not listen well; they may hear but not actually listen. Every now and
again I find myself not listening (my Wife is saying “Preach!”) and just
hearing. When I catch myself, I refocus
to listening mode (unless I really don’t want to hear what is being said, but I
digress)...Many use the words ‘listening’ and ‘hearing’ interchangeably when in
actuality, they have different meanings.
According
to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary-
To
Hear is to ‘be aware of (sound)
through the ear’.
To
Listen is to ‘hear something with thoughtful attention: give
consideration.
From
the definitions, listening is at least a step further than hearing, it’s an
active effort. It requires concentration
for its part of the communication process.
This process where the listener interprets what is heard, gains
understanding and provides an adequate response to it. This response also may use the other physical
senses to be better proficient during active listening. Not just for the ears, listening is a full
body experience or process. To be an
effective listener, one must focus on the situation at hand. How does one listen to the spirit and body?
Can the principles used in listening to another be used to listen to one’s own
spirit and body?
More specifically, when you’re experiencing
a headache, indigestion, stress, panic attack or any other dis-ease ailment,
what steps do you take to address them?
How about when you get winded walking up one flight of stairs or your
clothes have become too tight, are we just hearing or are we listening to our
body essence?
In addressing the above scenarios, the
process or formula is the same. The
first step is to ‘still’ oneself. This is done by breathing correctly (see post on ‘Breathing’). Next, target the problem then create
solutions. In ‘stilling’ oneself, your
essence will direct you to the source of your
dis-ease. This is important for we’ve been mis-educated
to address symptoms versus the root of our issues. Let’s go through a couple of examples.
PANIC
ATTACK/STRESS
A panic attack or any other stress
related issue can occur due to multiple situations, ranging from taking a test,
performing a task to engaging with another individual or individuals. As one’s panic attack/stress level increases,
one’s breathing pattern changes and becomes shortened, causing the body to tense. Simultaneously, the mind fixates on the
issue(s) magnifying them thus creating a downward spiral into this abyss. As stated in the previous paragraph, the
first step is to ‘still’ oneself by ‘potbelly breathing’. By putting the focus on one’s breathing, it
becomes regulated and slowed, causing the body, mind and spirit to relax.
From this ‘stilled’ or calm position,
one can properly address the trigger to their panic attack or stress. Keep in mind that the solution might be to
physically remove oneself from this trigger.
If you’re not able to remove yourself, allow your achieved calm to root
you in the present. The Essence will
provide you with solutions (If you’re in a situation and not able to remove
yourself, allow the Essence to provide solutions to minimize your experience
within the ordeal). Being rooted in the
present prevents one from f.e.a.r.
(false expectations appearing real). Oft
times, this dis-ease is due to a scenario that we imagine will happen.
BEING
NON ACTIVE
As people (inclusive of children) become
busier with their lives, many increase their level of inactivity as it relates
to physical exercise. The results of
this inactivity may manifest itself as one is walking up stairs (getting
winded) or putting on clothes that they once wore comfortably a few months ago
and now are tight (or don’t fit at all).
For those who have or currently experiencing this, did you listen to
your body as this occurred? If so, how did you address this example? One obvious way to address these scenarios is
to start exercising. One’s exercise
program can range from walking 20-30 minutes three to five times a week, to a
much more intense program of cardio activities, along with resistance
training. Other great exercise programs
are core based ones, such as Pilates and Yoga.
To make any exercise program you choose most affective, incorporate a
diet that compliments your workout. For those who haven’t exercised in a while
(or not at all), it would be a great idea to get a physical exam.
As you master listening to the Essence
within you (the Spirit to Mental to Body connection), peace, love and
empowerment will emanate within and throughout you. Needless to say, your quality of life will be
greatly enhanced and you will have a better relationship with self and others.
Remember to ‘Breath’!
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Hotep
