1. What do you like about Viewpoints?
Viewpoints, when done right, involves non pre-planned actions, and is based on impulses. These impulses of each individual in a group can all form into a collaborative thought, and it's kind of beautiful when you think about it. Everyone thinking the same thought, or just the same story. It was pretty awesome when watching and the group would form this sort of scene, and you could find out what the story was by what they kept doing. It's just another version of storytelling—a very interesting one at that. It was also kind of exciting to be the group moving around because you start off doing your own thing, but then you observe what others are doing, and maybe form different actions because of that. It starts to become completely collaborative. All that shared energy and teamwork was the funnest part.
2. Were there any moments that felt particularly alive for you?
The moments that felt most alive were moments when the whole group was working together, not on purpose or because they had to, but just because it felt right to do that in the moment. Presence. When the whole group was honing their presence, or maybe just skimming the edge of it, everyone was working together and not caring what the output was.
3. Were there times when the activity felt dead and forced? If so why and when?
Whenever we had the activity of forming how ever many circles, lines, and clumps—it was dead. Even when I tried to focus on just the impulses, I would suddenly remember that we would have to form those shapes—also remembering the fact that we couldn't have over or under the number. Because we were assigned to pre-plan our impulses, it threw everyone off and everyone was too focused on finishing the task ahead. Whether we succeeded in forming the correct number of shapes, everyone's presence was going toward the assignment instead of the impulses.
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Body Learning Pt. 2
a. Summarize: Primary Control, Unreliable Sensory Appreciation, Inhibition, Direction, Ends and Means
Primary control- a dynamic, ever changing relationship that functions all the time, for better or worse, in every position; serves as a key to coordinating the organism as a whole
Unreliable sensory appreciation- habitual misuse that adversely affects the reliability of kinaesthetic sense; the feeling of 'rightness in action' is untrustworthy; if the sensory appreciation is inaccurate the true needs of someone is uncertain, but as the standard of rightness develops, intuition becomes a more valuable tool
Inhibition- the ability to stop and delay a response until one is adequately prepared to make it; common sense, 'Stop, look and listen'; it is a process of stripping away things that impose on people so that one can work naturally and reason can function without distraction; leaving oneself alone
Direction- the experience of trusting reason rather than habit, even if it feels awkward; directing yourself to do something without forcing it; the activity of all the parts reflects direction of oneself as a whole
Ends and means- a balanced relationship achieved by indirect means; to stop and inhibit the habitual response--practise the projection of conscious direction; 'keep your options open' through to the critical moment of decision; continuing to project the directions for maintenance of the new Use
b. Reflection: What did you find interesting, helpful, confusing, etc. about the reading?
I found some of the ideas to be very interesting, and easily understood. Once you're reading through the ideas, you can think about it observantly and understand how simple and concrete the idea is. All the ideas coincide with the idea of instincts, natural thinking, or rather not thinking. When the author was describing how Alexander had to 'think' and not 'do' when he trying to put his body in the natural alignment, I found it more useful to think of it the opposite way. To 'do,' but not to think. All of Alexander's techniques involve the body's natural way of positioning itself and moving. If one were to stop thinking of 'standing right' or 'moving right,' it just happens on its own accord. However, I do understand that many people's bodies (probably including mine) are so used to positioning themselves in a stressful manor. I think the best way to "fix" this is to take an Alexander class because having someone else adjust your body or put it at ease and into a more natural way of being is much more effective than just the words. I think my favorite quote from this reading is, "...the path to self-realization involves finding out what one's true needs are and then fulfilling them." I believe this quote to be extremely accurate in the matters of everything. Many moments of life are wasted on things that people, in the moment, believe are their true needs. I know I have definitely wasted some money on "true needs." But the main focus of this quote is, one should first examine the situation or item, wait on it, and then decide. One would want to fulfill their true needs vs. their momentary wants. Deciphering the difference is key to living a more productive and guided life. Alexander pushes us to develop an accurate standard of rightness, which I believe many people are lacking of. If more people were to learn and study Alexander's techniques I believe that they would be much healthier and happier. I hope personally that I can also form into this natural way of moving and positioning myself.
Primary control- a dynamic, ever changing relationship that functions all the time, for better or worse, in every position; serves as a key to coordinating the organism as a whole
Unreliable sensory appreciation- habitual misuse that adversely affects the reliability of kinaesthetic sense; the feeling of 'rightness in action' is untrustworthy; if the sensory appreciation is inaccurate the true needs of someone is uncertain, but as the standard of rightness develops, intuition becomes a more valuable tool
Inhibition- the ability to stop and delay a response until one is adequately prepared to make it; common sense, 'Stop, look and listen'; it is a process of stripping away things that impose on people so that one can work naturally and reason can function without distraction; leaving oneself alone
Direction- the experience of trusting reason rather than habit, even if it feels awkward; directing yourself to do something without forcing it; the activity of all the parts reflects direction of oneself as a whole
Ends and means- a balanced relationship achieved by indirect means; to stop and inhibit the habitual response--practise the projection of conscious direction; 'keep your options open' through to the critical moment of decision; continuing to project the directions for maintenance of the new Use
b. Reflection: What did you find interesting, helpful, confusing, etc. about the reading?
I found some of the ideas to be very interesting, and easily understood. Once you're reading through the ideas, you can think about it observantly and understand how simple and concrete the idea is. All the ideas coincide with the idea of instincts, natural thinking, or rather not thinking. When the author was describing how Alexander had to 'think' and not 'do' when he trying to put his body in the natural alignment, I found it more useful to think of it the opposite way. To 'do,' but not to think. All of Alexander's techniques involve the body's natural way of positioning itself and moving. If one were to stop thinking of 'standing right' or 'moving right,' it just happens on its own accord. However, I do understand that many people's bodies (probably including mine) are so used to positioning themselves in a stressful manor. I think the best way to "fix" this is to take an Alexander class because having someone else adjust your body or put it at ease and into a more natural way of being is much more effective than just the words. I think my favorite quote from this reading is, "...the path to self-realization involves finding out what one's true needs are and then fulfilling them." I believe this quote to be extremely accurate in the matters of everything. Many moments of life are wasted on things that people, in the moment, believe are their true needs. I know I have definitely wasted some money on "true needs." But the main focus of this quote is, one should first examine the situation or item, wait on it, and then decide. One would want to fulfill their true needs vs. their momentary wants. Deciphering the difference is key to living a more productive and guided life. Alexander pushes us to develop an accurate standard of rightness, which I believe many people are lacking of. If more people were to learn and study Alexander's techniques I believe that they would be much healthier and happier. I hope personally that I can also form into this natural way of moving and positioning myself.
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Body Learning Pt. 1
a. Summarize the life of F.M. Alexander
Frederick Matthias Alexander was born in 1869 at Wynyard, Australia. He had eight siblings and was raised on a large farm. Having been raised in this type of environment, Alexander was taught self-sufficiency from a young age. He suffered from respiratory health issues, causing him to be removed from school for private education. His two great loves became horses and theatre. When financial issues arose, Alexander was forced to move from his rural life into a mining city. Although he worked various jobs, Alexander studied music and drama himself constantly. Moving again, he was able to study dramatic and musical training under the best teachers. His recurrent illnesses and bad temper kept him from holding any sort of steady job. Alexander then decided to devote himself to be an actor and reciter. He gained an excellent reputation. His illnesses persisted with hoarseness and respiratory trouble that affected his performances. When no doctor could help Alexander with his persistent problems, he decided to find methods of fixing them on his own. He decided to observe himself in the mirror while speaking and reciting. Alexander observed that when he recited: he stiffened his neck, he depressed his larynx, and he sucked in breath with gasps. When Alexander worked to remove one of those problems, the others followed and disappeared. Once Alexander organized all his findings and began to learn more and more, he eventually began to teach it to other people. While many of his time were affected by his teachings, he is said to be ahead of his time. Now Alexander is becoming well-known, as opposed to before when he was less. Alexander taught in Sydney, London, United States, and Africa. Since Alexander was his own prodigy for his teachings, he was easily able to teach many people of his time. His fame as an actor also grew along with his methods. Alexander developed on his own a scientific method for bodily success, which is becoming more widespread even after his death.
b. Summarize the first two operational ideas: Use and Functioning, The Whole Person (please include a quote that best captures the key idea behind each concept)
Use and Functioning is the process on control over all actions that seem to have the potential of control. It can be closely related to heredity and environment.
"If you teach an individual first to be aware of his physical organism and then to use it as it was meant to be used you can often change his entire attitude to life and cure his neurotic tendencies"
-Aldous Huxley
The Whole Person is based on understanding that the human organism always functions as a whole and can only be changed fundamentally as a whole. Alexander's technique of unity is not just theoretical, it is the process that led to his discovery he at first believed, like most other people, that 'mind' and 'body' were separate entities.
"The world seems mad in preoccupation with what is specific, particular and disconnected in medicine, politics, science, industry and education."
-Dewey
Frederick Matthias Alexander was born in 1869 at Wynyard, Australia. He had eight siblings and was raised on a large farm. Having been raised in this type of environment, Alexander was taught self-sufficiency from a young age. He suffered from respiratory health issues, causing him to be removed from school for private education. His two great loves became horses and theatre. When financial issues arose, Alexander was forced to move from his rural life into a mining city. Although he worked various jobs, Alexander studied music and drama himself constantly. Moving again, he was able to study dramatic and musical training under the best teachers. His recurrent illnesses and bad temper kept him from holding any sort of steady job. Alexander then decided to devote himself to be an actor and reciter. He gained an excellent reputation. His illnesses persisted with hoarseness and respiratory trouble that affected his performances. When no doctor could help Alexander with his persistent problems, he decided to find methods of fixing them on his own. He decided to observe himself in the mirror while speaking and reciting. Alexander observed that when he recited: he stiffened his neck, he depressed his larynx, and he sucked in breath with gasps. When Alexander worked to remove one of those problems, the others followed and disappeared. Once Alexander organized all his findings and began to learn more and more, he eventually began to teach it to other people. While many of his time were affected by his teachings, he is said to be ahead of his time. Now Alexander is becoming well-known, as opposed to before when he was less. Alexander taught in Sydney, London, United States, and Africa. Since Alexander was his own prodigy for his teachings, he was easily able to teach many people of his time. His fame as an actor also grew along with his methods. Alexander developed on his own a scientific method for bodily success, which is becoming more widespread even after his death.
b. Summarize the first two operational ideas: Use and Functioning, The Whole Person (please include a quote that best captures the key idea behind each concept)
Use and Functioning is the process on control over all actions that seem to have the potential of control. It can be closely related to heredity and environment.
"If you teach an individual first to be aware of his physical organism and then to use it as it was meant to be used you can often change his entire attitude to life and cure his neurotic tendencies"
-Aldous Huxley
The Whole Person is based on understanding that the human organism always functions as a whole and can only be changed fundamentally as a whole. Alexander's technique of unity is not just theoretical, it is the process that led to his discovery he at first believed, like most other people, that 'mind' and 'body' were separate entities.
"The world seems mad in preoccupation with what is specific, particular and disconnected in medicine, politics, science, industry and education."
-Dewey
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Fifth Post: Understanding Yourself
Video 1: Anthony De Mello on "Self-Observation"
1. What is the most important thing you can do when no one can help you?
Self-observation.
2. What is the difference between self-observation and self-absorption? What is self-observation?
Self-absorption is self preoccupation, being concerned and worried about yourself. Self-observation means to watch everything in you and around you as if it were happening to someone else--to watch without personalizing.
3. Why do we suffer?
We suffer because we identify with our depressions and anxieties. "I am depressed", but we are not our depressions.
4. Anthony De Mello uses the analogy of the sky and clouds to speak about the relationship between our true "self" and our thoughts/emotions/different states of life. How does he define the self/"I"?
He defines the self as an observer of them all. You're a passer, a detached observer. Someone who is not interfering, but simply watching and observing.
5. If you understand things they will do what?
They will change.
6. Finish the sentence from 5.25: "What you judge you ...."
"...cannot understand."
Reflection:
7. What do you think about DeMello's statement, "I am not my depression, I am not my joy?" Who/What is the "I" that can say, "I am not myself?" Make a list of your most precious qualities and character traits. Does that list account for everything that is your "I?" If not, why not?
I suppose the "I" that can say that is the I that is changing every moment. You are not always in a state of anything, depression or joy--no matter how constant either one is. It is not a forever kind of thing. If you said that you "are" something, the English language can interpret it that you "are always" this.
Precious qualities/Character traits:
Caring, goofy, creative, artistic, strong, sassy, humorous, gentle, crazy, loyal, clever, never boring, free spirit, hopeless romantic, bookworm, grumpy, lively,--this in no way accounts for anything of who "I" am. There a million sides to a person, and they're always changing. Story time: Just recently I had to write a second manifesto for a class I am taking. I couldn't find my old one, so I started over and wrote a new one. I thought it was so much better than the first one! I of course didn't think it summed up everything, but it got the main thing across. By the second time reading it for the class, I realized that it was horrible. It wasn't horrible because it was written badly or anything, but it was horrible because many were not understanding what I was trying to get across. I could tell by the professor's comments afterward that it had flown right over his head--completely. It made me feel stupid and like I had written it wrong, but it was simply because I, personally, cannot ever sum myself up in a few paragraphs. I am so many things, always changing, always having crazy new adventures. It's hard to understand how people don't understand what you're trying to say or get across (especially concerning yourself), because it just comes so naturally. I am naturally me, and no one will ever be able to understand that. I think a small part of me (and possibly everyone) always hopes that at least one person will be able to understand me completely--or maybe I'm rather afraid of that (not quite sure with the "always changing")--but someone can never 100% understand someone. However, I guess we can hope for the most! I also hope it is understandable why this paragraph of understanding is so understandingly long.
Video 2: Ted Talk by Angela Bradshaw on the "Alexander Technique"
1. What happens to us when we experience fear, stress and anxiety? Why?
We shorten in stature, narrow inside, pull our heads back and down, and compress ourselves. It is a survival mechanism kicking in--the fight or flight response.
2. (minute 3.15ish) The Alexander Technique does what?
The Alexander Technique enables us to choose a different response. It makes conscience how we are using our body and allows us to be more appropriate in response to our circumstances.
3. Finish the sentence (4:10ish) "Nature would prefer...."
"...us to be in balance."
4. What are the three points of contact for the foot?
Big toe, little toe, and heel.
5. What are the three hinges in our legs?
Ankles, knees, and hips.
6. Where are the hip joints?
A third of the way along between the pelvis and the pubic bone.
7. Allow the pelvis to be heavy like a .....?
An anchor.
8. Where is the top of the spine?
Between the ears and behind the eyes.
Reflection:
9. What, according to your view of the world, is the connection between your mind and body?
According to my view, the mind and body are completely connected. You cannot fully use one without the other. When communicating, one could not only use one, they would have to use both. Though many people have one that they are better communicating with, you still need both. They are connected completely--literally. I think for myself to have a healthy mind, I must have a healthy body. Also, to have a healthy body, I must have a healthy mind. They are two forces that compliment each other and want to improve upon themselves.
1. What is the most important thing you can do when no one can help you?
Self-observation.
2. What is the difference between self-observation and self-absorption? What is self-observation?
Self-absorption is self preoccupation, being concerned and worried about yourself. Self-observation means to watch everything in you and around you as if it were happening to someone else--to watch without personalizing.
3. Why do we suffer?
We suffer because we identify with our depressions and anxieties. "I am depressed", but we are not our depressions.
4. Anthony De Mello uses the analogy of the sky and clouds to speak about the relationship between our true "self" and our thoughts/emotions/different states of life. How does he define the self/"I"?
He defines the self as an observer of them all. You're a passer, a detached observer. Someone who is not interfering, but simply watching and observing.
5. If you understand things they will do what?
They will change.
6. Finish the sentence from 5.25: "What you judge you ...."
"...cannot understand."
Reflection:
7. What do you think about DeMello's statement, "I am not my depression, I am not my joy?" Who/What is the "I" that can say, "I am not myself?" Make a list of your most precious qualities and character traits. Does that list account for everything that is your "I?" If not, why not?
I suppose the "I" that can say that is the I that is changing every moment. You are not always in a state of anything, depression or joy--no matter how constant either one is. It is not a forever kind of thing. If you said that you "are" something, the English language can interpret it that you "are always" this.
Precious qualities/Character traits:
Caring, goofy, creative, artistic, strong, sassy, humorous, gentle, crazy, loyal, clever, never boring, free spirit, hopeless romantic, bookworm, grumpy, lively,--this in no way accounts for anything of who "I" am. There a million sides to a person, and they're always changing. Story time: Just recently I had to write a second manifesto for a class I am taking. I couldn't find my old one, so I started over and wrote a new one. I thought it was so much better than the first one! I of course didn't think it summed up everything, but it got the main thing across. By the second time reading it for the class, I realized that it was horrible. It wasn't horrible because it was written badly or anything, but it was horrible because many were not understanding what I was trying to get across. I could tell by the professor's comments afterward that it had flown right over his head--completely. It made me feel stupid and like I had written it wrong, but it was simply because I, personally, cannot ever sum myself up in a few paragraphs. I am so many things, always changing, always having crazy new adventures. It's hard to understand how people don't understand what you're trying to say or get across (especially concerning yourself), because it just comes so naturally. I am naturally me, and no one will ever be able to understand that. I think a small part of me (and possibly everyone) always hopes that at least one person will be able to understand me completely--or maybe I'm rather afraid of that (not quite sure with the "always changing")--but someone can never 100% understand someone. However, I guess we can hope for the most! I also hope it is understandable why this paragraph of understanding is so understandingly long.
Video 2: Ted Talk by Angela Bradshaw on the "Alexander Technique"
1. What happens to us when we experience fear, stress and anxiety? Why?
We shorten in stature, narrow inside, pull our heads back and down, and compress ourselves. It is a survival mechanism kicking in--the fight or flight response.
2. (minute 3.15ish) The Alexander Technique does what?
The Alexander Technique enables us to choose a different response. It makes conscience how we are using our body and allows us to be more appropriate in response to our circumstances.
3. Finish the sentence (4:10ish) "Nature would prefer...."
"...us to be in balance."
4. What are the three points of contact for the foot?
Big toe, little toe, and heel.
5. What are the three hinges in our legs?
Ankles, knees, and hips.
6. Where are the hip joints?
A third of the way along between the pelvis and the pubic bone.
7. Allow the pelvis to be heavy like a .....?
An anchor.
8. Where is the top of the spine?
Between the ears and behind the eyes.
Reflection:
9. What, according to your view of the world, is the connection between your mind and body?
According to my view, the mind and body are completely connected. You cannot fully use one without the other. When communicating, one could not only use one, they would have to use both. Though many people have one that they are better communicating with, you still need both. They are connected completely--literally. I think for myself to have a healthy mind, I must have a healthy body. Also, to have a healthy body, I must have a healthy mind. They are two forces that compliment each other and want to improve upon themselves.
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Fourth Post: Freedom to Flow
Video 1 - Playing the Game of Life, by Alan Watts
1. What does our society tell children?
Society tells children that it is playing a game and playing by following rules. It will tell them the rules so they know their way around. Once understood and when the children are older, they will be able to invent better ones. Children are on probation and not considered to be real human beings. They are candidates and sent to go on a journey of preparation to something they will never get to.
2. What is our society's "preparation for life?"
Society's preparation for life begins with kindergarten, then elementary school, high school, college, and graduate school. Then commencement begins, where a student is released in the world just to end up in the same cycle of preparation.
3. When one arrives, Watts claims that he or she often feels cheated. Why?
People feel cheated because they have been trained for this their whole life, and then have to go through more training after. It dawns on them that this is what they have "arrived" to. Life feels the same as it has always felt.
4. What is the final goal of our society?
It is for retirement.
5. What is the problem with living ever for the future?
Making plans for the future is of use only to people who are capable of living completely in the present.
Video 2: The Secret of Life
1. What is the Chinese word for nature? What does it mean?
Ziran--meaning that which happens of itself.
2. According to Watts, you stop the spontaneous flowering of nature if you do what to it?
If you tell it, you must do it. When you try to command the spontaneous process, you stop it.
3. According to Watts, what are human beings?
The fabric and structure of existence itself.
4. What is the secret of life according to Watts?
Instead of calling it work, realize this is play.
Video 3: You're Already Awesome
1. What was Dr. Brewer's experience of flow?
No Shit! There he was. He was barreling down a mountain bike trail in Colorado. A whole lot of descent, not much trail. He was really focusing on staying on the trail, at some point there wasn't a bike, a trail, or even him. It was just flow.
2. According to the Harvard study mentioned by Brewer, what percentage of time do we get caught of up thinking?
50% of the time.
3. Finish the sentence: "A wandering mind is a _____"
A wandering mind is an unhappy mind.
4. What happens to the brain during meditation?
The default and craving regions of the brain become quieter.
5. In nine minutes, the test subject mentioned by Brewer learned the difference between what?
He learned the difference between getting caught up and getting out of his own way.
Reflection Question:
How does all of this relate to our yoga practice? How does it relate to killer ball? To performing? Was there an idea in any of these talks that stood out to you? If so, what was it and why?
Our yoga practices require a great level of presence and meditation to be done properly. For someone to reap the most benefits from yoga, they must be in a state of flow.
During killer ball, whether you were on the outside circle or the inside, a great amount of presence and focus was required to win. I know from personal experience that I sucked being in the middle. I was definitely too distracted to adequately dodge the ball or protect. However, when Skye and Maja were in the middle, they had a great sense of focus and remained in the middle for what felt like forever TWICE!
In relation to performance, an actor or actress will not be able to perform to their best ability without at least a taste of flow. Acting is being. To act, every action can not be planned ahead, it has to be in the moment or it won't be real. Or feel real, perhaps. When you are acting, you just have to live (be present), but if you can't do that in regular life, how can you expect to do it then?
My favorite idea discussed was the spontaneous process of nature. I loved loved loved when he said that if you tried to control it would just stop! This is exactly how I feel about so many things. One of the many reasons I hate the levels of education preceding college is because of the amount of control forced upon people, especially at such a young age when one just wants to be free. It's as if we're all being trained to be robots. I don't want to be forced to learned something I find useless, then be expected to reiterate it back. Only to receive a grade, telling me whether or not I can amount to a future or not. Everyone has the possibility of a future and everybody has the capacity to learn. I honestly can't truly enjoy anything unless I'm living in the present. Dancing, cooking, singing, laughing, writing, I all have to do it in the present. I don't plan to laugh or plan to sing to my favorite songs in the car, it just happens and I just love it. The main reason why laughter seems to be everyone's medicine is because it is completely and solely in the present moment. Freedom is the necessity of life, and it is what we all deserve as a human being. The right to live in the present and be ourselves, no matter what others deem otherwise.
1. What does our society tell children?
Society tells children that it is playing a game and playing by following rules. It will tell them the rules so they know their way around. Once understood and when the children are older, they will be able to invent better ones. Children are on probation and not considered to be real human beings. They are candidates and sent to go on a journey of preparation to something they will never get to.
2. What is our society's "preparation for life?"
Society's preparation for life begins with kindergarten, then elementary school, high school, college, and graduate school. Then commencement begins, where a student is released in the world just to end up in the same cycle of preparation.
3. When one arrives, Watts claims that he or she often feels cheated. Why?
People feel cheated because they have been trained for this their whole life, and then have to go through more training after. It dawns on them that this is what they have "arrived" to. Life feels the same as it has always felt.
4. What is the final goal of our society?
It is for retirement.
5. What is the problem with living ever for the future?
Making plans for the future is of use only to people who are capable of living completely in the present.
Video 2: The Secret of Life
1. What is the Chinese word for nature? What does it mean?
Ziran--meaning that which happens of itself.
2. According to Watts, you stop the spontaneous flowering of nature if you do what to it?
If you tell it, you must do it. When you try to command the spontaneous process, you stop it.
3. According to Watts, what are human beings?
The fabric and structure of existence itself.
4. What is the secret of life according to Watts?
Instead of calling it work, realize this is play.
Video 3: You're Already Awesome
1. What was Dr. Brewer's experience of flow?
No Shit! There he was. He was barreling down a mountain bike trail in Colorado. A whole lot of descent, not much trail. He was really focusing on staying on the trail, at some point there wasn't a bike, a trail, or even him. It was just flow.
2. According to the Harvard study mentioned by Brewer, what percentage of time do we get caught of up thinking?
50% of the time.
3. Finish the sentence: "A wandering mind is a _____"
A wandering mind is an unhappy mind.
4. What happens to the brain during meditation?
The default and craving regions of the brain become quieter.
5. In nine minutes, the test subject mentioned by Brewer learned the difference between what?
He learned the difference between getting caught up and getting out of his own way.
Reflection Question:
How does all of this relate to our yoga practice? How does it relate to killer ball? To performing? Was there an idea in any of these talks that stood out to you? If so, what was it and why?
Our yoga practices require a great level of presence and meditation to be done properly. For someone to reap the most benefits from yoga, they must be in a state of flow.
During killer ball, whether you were on the outside circle or the inside, a great amount of presence and focus was required to win. I know from personal experience that I sucked being in the middle. I was definitely too distracted to adequately dodge the ball or protect. However, when Skye and Maja were in the middle, they had a great sense of focus and remained in the middle for what felt like forever TWICE!
In relation to performance, an actor or actress will not be able to perform to their best ability without at least a taste of flow. Acting is being. To act, every action can not be planned ahead, it has to be in the moment or it won't be real. Or feel real, perhaps. When you are acting, you just have to live (be present), but if you can't do that in regular life, how can you expect to do it then?
My favorite idea discussed was the spontaneous process of nature. I loved loved loved when he said that if you tried to control it would just stop! This is exactly how I feel about so many things. One of the many reasons I hate the levels of education preceding college is because of the amount of control forced upon people, especially at such a young age when one just wants to be free. It's as if we're all being trained to be robots. I don't want to be forced to learned something I find useless, then be expected to reiterate it back. Only to receive a grade, telling me whether or not I can amount to a future or not. Everyone has the possibility of a future and everybody has the capacity to learn. I honestly can't truly enjoy anything unless I'm living in the present. Dancing, cooking, singing, laughing, writing, I all have to do it in the present. I don't plan to laugh or plan to sing to my favorite songs in the car, it just happens and I just love it. The main reason why laughter seems to be everyone's medicine is because it is completely and solely in the present moment. Freedom is the necessity of life, and it is what we all deserve as a human being. The right to live in the present and be ourselves, no matter what others deem otherwise.
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Third Post: Don't Mind Your Mindfulness
What is Mindfulness - Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn
1. How does Dr. Kabat-Zinn define mindfulness?
He defines it as purposely paying attention to the present moment non-judgmentally as if your life depends on it, allowing you to connect better with your life. It doesn't involve a lot of energy
2. Why, according to Dr. Kabat-Zinn, does our "life depend" upon mindfulness?
Attention is what allows us to navigate our lives. It allows us to have wiser relationships with things going on in our lives.
3. Does it matter what thing or things you pay attention to?
No, it is the attending of your thoughts that matters.
4. Is Mindfulness a technique?
It is not a technique. It is a way of being--being embodied, and aware of the world.
All it Takes is 10 Mindful Minutes - Andy Puddicombe
1. What does Andy suggest we "do" for at least 10 minutes each day?
He suggests we do nothing. He wants us to take a moment with no distractions or anything.
2. According to the Harvard study cited by Andy, what % of time are our minds lost in thought?
47%
3. Is Mindfulness about controlling our thoughts and feelings? If yes, explain. If not, explain.
No, it is about letting your thoughts flow on their own. It is being in the here and now. It is letting the present moment take you and not judging any of it. Your mind has to be focused and relaxed at the same time.
4. How does Andy's juggling with the three red balls relate to our activity of balancing sticks?
Just as Andy has to be focused and relaxed at the same time to juggle the three balls, so do we. He also demonstrates how uneasy the juggling became when he was too focused or too relaxed.
Don't Mind My Mindfulness
For this activity, I sat cross-legged on my couch. I had to turn on relaxing music (Bon Iver), since my neighbors were throwing a Super Bowl party. In the first couple of minutes, my mind was flooding with thoughts, some very emotional. Then my mind became more empty. I focused on my breath and the music. Once my alarm when off, I shut it off right away and took 5 more minutes. I started imagining wonderful, present places I could be like, in a sunny forest with leaves flying at me and my hair flying up in knots or just letting myself be covered in rain. (I did not however actually go outside and sit in the rain.) Overall, it was a nice mindful experience. I will definitely try this in the future, especially when my mind is going crazy.
1. How does Dr. Kabat-Zinn define mindfulness?
He defines it as purposely paying attention to the present moment non-judgmentally as if your life depends on it, allowing you to connect better with your life. It doesn't involve a lot of energy
2. Why, according to Dr. Kabat-Zinn, does our "life depend" upon mindfulness?
Attention is what allows us to navigate our lives. It allows us to have wiser relationships with things going on in our lives.
3. Does it matter what thing or things you pay attention to?
No, it is the attending of your thoughts that matters.
4. Is Mindfulness a technique?
It is not a technique. It is a way of being--being embodied, and aware of the world.
All it Takes is 10 Mindful Minutes - Andy Puddicombe
1. What does Andy suggest we "do" for at least 10 minutes each day?
He suggests we do nothing. He wants us to take a moment with no distractions or anything.
2. According to the Harvard study cited by Andy, what % of time are our minds lost in thought?
47%
3. Is Mindfulness about controlling our thoughts and feelings? If yes, explain. If not, explain.
No, it is about letting your thoughts flow on their own. It is being in the here and now. It is letting the present moment take you and not judging any of it. Your mind has to be focused and relaxed at the same time.
4. How does Andy's juggling with the three red balls relate to our activity of balancing sticks?
Just as Andy has to be focused and relaxed at the same time to juggle the three balls, so do we. He also demonstrates how uneasy the juggling became when he was too focused or too relaxed.
Don't Mind My Mindfulness
For this activity, I sat cross-legged on my couch. I had to turn on relaxing music (Bon Iver), since my neighbors were throwing a Super Bowl party. In the first couple of minutes, my mind was flooding with thoughts, some very emotional. Then my mind became more empty. I focused on my breath and the music. Once my alarm when off, I shut it off right away and took 5 more minutes. I started imagining wonderful, present places I could be like, in a sunny forest with leaves flying at me and my hair flying up in knots or just letting myself be covered in rain. (I did not however actually go outside and sit in the rain.) Overall, it was a nice mindful experience. I will definitely try this in the future, especially when my mind is going crazy.
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Second Post: Presence is Living
1. How does Patsy Rodenburg define Presence?
Patsy defines Presence as a jolt of energy between people, such as a shared eye contact or a moment. It's when your energy is fully connected to the world and what surrounds you, receiving energy back in return. It is pretty much a shared force of energy between yourself and the world. The only way to experience an emotion, moment, or the world completely is to be fully present. Patsy also notes that moments of complete presence are usually easily remembered and cherished. Presence is being alive, within yourself, others, and the world all at once.
2. What are some ways that Presence is lost? When do you feel a loss or weakness of presence?
Presence can be lost by urban living, or even walking around campus. When someone is surrounded by hundreds of people, it's not possible to be present with every single one. Presence is also lost when people go into the state of the First or Third Circle, as opposed to the Second. I feel a loss of presence when driving alone, walking around campus, sitting in a giant auditorium full of people, or when I am sleep-deprived--I'm too focused on imagining sleep and comfort.
3. What is First Circle? When have you experienced yourself in First Circle?
First circle is focusing your energy solely on yourself, or inside yourself. It is being too engulfed within yourself that you are unable to communicate with the outside world as well. I experience first circle when I am surrounded by possibly dangerous strangers, in an uncomfortable environment, or even when Third Circle individuals force an unwanted interaction.
4. What is Third Circle? When have you experienced yourself in Third Circle?
Third circle is focusing one's energy onto the outer world, but not individually. It is used as a means of controlling others and as power. I am actually not fond of being in Third Circle much at all. I find it necessary in business to be charming, but I still try to stress it to the individual. A major drawback on my lack of Third Circle is the fact that I do not give well presentations, because in my mind I want to communicate it specifically to each individual but that's not possible in the situation. A situation with Third Circle that I have experienced is babysitting. While I want to feel equal and connected to the children, I know that I must assume an authoritative role at times. I am so good at playing with the children, but not at ordering them around.
5. What is Second Circle? Relate a personal experience (in performance, athletics, etc) when you have been in Second Circle.
Second Circle is connecting with someone's or the world's energy. It is an equal share of energy and life. To me, it is living. It is the most powerful energy of all, and something that I can definitely never forget. When I see someone I find interesting, I always feel an enormous sense of presence when our eyes are met. My old friend always told me my eyes said a million things, even if people sometimes misread them. I will always choose to be present more than not, and people usually notice that about me. I know this question asks only for one personal experience, but I'm going to list three because I found this to be a very enlightening and helpful read on understanding my presence.
1. When I was performing my monologue last semester in front of my class, I was asked to give it 1000% the second time. My first line being, "You know what, jackass?" I channeled my energy on anger and experience. As I said the line once more, giving much more energy and effort, I felt a jolt of shock because it was just very present for me. However, that energy shocked me so much that I was thrown out of my presence right after. My luck!
2. My old friend has three dogs. One of the dogs is the youngest, but biggest of the three. Another of the dogs is the oldest, but at least three times smaller. They hate each other. The oldest dog will growl if the other dog even nears him. The oldest dog will also growl when he hears something outside, like visitors coming inside. As I spent most of one of my summer's at this house, I was there a lot. I sat next to the oldest dog a lot because he was cute and actually sweet. Whenever he would start to growl, I would stroke his fur and shh him. I would give him my calming energy and it would actually work. My friend and her family thought it was so weird, but I think that that was presence.
3. One instance, my friends and I went out to have dinner. My friend across the table kept coughing and coughing. I felt compassion. For no reason, my first instinct was to grab his hand and "send him my energy" through my eyes. He stopped coughing. I was literally shocked out of my mind, cause I didn't know exactly why I did it or why it worked. I blame presence.
Patsy defines Presence as a jolt of energy between people, such as a shared eye contact or a moment. It's when your energy is fully connected to the world and what surrounds you, receiving energy back in return. It is pretty much a shared force of energy between yourself and the world. The only way to experience an emotion, moment, or the world completely is to be fully present. Patsy also notes that moments of complete presence are usually easily remembered and cherished. Presence is being alive, within yourself, others, and the world all at once.
2. What are some ways that Presence is lost? When do you feel a loss or weakness of presence?
Presence can be lost by urban living, or even walking around campus. When someone is surrounded by hundreds of people, it's not possible to be present with every single one. Presence is also lost when people go into the state of the First or Third Circle, as opposed to the Second. I feel a loss of presence when driving alone, walking around campus, sitting in a giant auditorium full of people, or when I am sleep-deprived--I'm too focused on imagining sleep and comfort.
3. What is First Circle? When have you experienced yourself in First Circle?
First circle is focusing your energy solely on yourself, or inside yourself. It is being too engulfed within yourself that you are unable to communicate with the outside world as well. I experience first circle when I am surrounded by possibly dangerous strangers, in an uncomfortable environment, or even when Third Circle individuals force an unwanted interaction.
4. What is Third Circle? When have you experienced yourself in Third Circle?
Third circle is focusing one's energy onto the outer world, but not individually. It is used as a means of controlling others and as power. I am actually not fond of being in Third Circle much at all. I find it necessary in business to be charming, but I still try to stress it to the individual. A major drawback on my lack of Third Circle is the fact that I do not give well presentations, because in my mind I want to communicate it specifically to each individual but that's not possible in the situation. A situation with Third Circle that I have experienced is babysitting. While I want to feel equal and connected to the children, I know that I must assume an authoritative role at times. I am so good at playing with the children, but not at ordering them around.
5. What is Second Circle? Relate a personal experience (in performance, athletics, etc) when you have been in Second Circle.
Second Circle is connecting with someone's or the world's energy. It is an equal share of energy and life. To me, it is living. It is the most powerful energy of all, and something that I can definitely never forget. When I see someone I find interesting, I always feel an enormous sense of presence when our eyes are met. My old friend always told me my eyes said a million things, even if people sometimes misread them. I will always choose to be present more than not, and people usually notice that about me. I know this question asks only for one personal experience, but I'm going to list three because I found this to be a very enlightening and helpful read on understanding my presence.
1. When I was performing my monologue last semester in front of my class, I was asked to give it 1000% the second time. My first line being, "You know what, jackass?" I channeled my energy on anger and experience. As I said the line once more, giving much more energy and effort, I felt a jolt of shock because it was just very present for me. However, that energy shocked me so much that I was thrown out of my presence right after. My luck!
2. My old friend has three dogs. One of the dogs is the youngest, but biggest of the three. Another of the dogs is the oldest, but at least three times smaller. They hate each other. The oldest dog will growl if the other dog even nears him. The oldest dog will also growl when he hears something outside, like visitors coming inside. As I spent most of one of my summer's at this house, I was there a lot. I sat next to the oldest dog a lot because he was cute and actually sweet. Whenever he would start to growl, I would stroke his fur and shh him. I would give him my calming energy and it would actually work. My friend and her family thought it was so weird, but I think that that was presence.
3. One instance, my friends and I went out to have dinner. My friend across the table kept coughing and coughing. I felt compassion. For no reason, my first instinct was to grab his hand and "send him my energy" through my eyes. He stopped coughing. I was literally shocked out of my mind, cause I didn't know exactly why I did it or why it worked. I blame presence.
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