Freedom from mental distractions

I am putting together a mini series called 'mind and its perceptions', discussing different topics related to the way aspects of our mind can really limit our experience of life and cause us suffering. They will be short videos shared on my Instagram channel @freeedomfromthought. (3 e's)

Just like when we experience a noise like the buzzing of a machine turn off and we didn't realise that noise was there until it had gone, having a quiet and calmer mind is the same. We have gotten so used to a head full of thoughts that we don't even consider that there could be less noise, even silence...

My deepest understanding is that in order to be truly free from suffering we have to be able to see that life is beautifully neutral, it is our mind and its judgements that divide and separate.

Freeing ourselves from mental distractions and suffering can be a challenge. It requires a lot of courage, compassion, patience, and the willingness to let go of emotions such as anger, bitterness and hatred created as a result of being hurt in the past.

Some, such as those who have suffered a trauma or a period in their life where they were not properly listened to, understood or supported, will likely benefit from therapeutic approaches that look at their past, and in particular these events. Approaches like these help us to recognise the limiting belief systems and associated thoughts and emotions that were created as a result. For example, a child who was expected to always behave and punished for 'making mistakes' may have felt that they were never good enough. They grow up with a sense of unworthiness and lack, and may try to fill this hole with unhealthy habits or material objects, but nothing ever truly satisfies this need because it is rooted in a false belief system. They become angry and frustrated which further perpetuates their unhealthy desires. Another child is often told off for what they say, they aren't told why but they are left feeling as though there is something wrong with them. As an adult they rarely have positive relationships because they learnt that it is easier to keep themselves small and to not go for what they really want.

Like anything, even therapy can become a distraction, and there comes a point when we have to stop poking our finger in those old emotional wounds and just let them heal. I value the simple approach of allowing life to provide the opportunities that I need to learn and grow. My attitude to life is based on what I value; honesty, listening to all perspectives and opinions, giving people a chance and treating them fairly, letting my intuition guide me, and acknowledging my own vulnerabilities and darker nature. Set the foundations right and you will live in integrity and therefore more inner-peace.

Starting with something small like a few minutes of daily reflective journaling or guided meditation (lots on youtube or apps like insight timer or headspace) creates momentum that starts to change your experience of life. Consistency is key, and doing a few minutes every day is not a big ask. It shows yourself that you care more for the part of you that wants positive change than the part of you that wants to stay stuck in the same cycles for the rest of your life.

Thank you for reading

Jade

xx