There is a concept in traditional martial arts called “beginner’s mind”. The Japanese word for this is “soshin”.
As a beginner, the first time you do something you really have to concentrate and focus in order to do it correctly.
The idea of soshin is to continue to be like a beginner when p erforming various tasks. No matter how trivial a task is, retain the mindfulness of a beginner when performing it.
Have you ever engaged in some kind of creative work, or have you ever become so engrossed in doing something, like playing and laughing with your kids, that you lost all track of time?
This happened because you were living in the moment. You truly felt more alive and energized by doing it.
It’s an incredible feeling, almost a state of flow.
This is one of the things I love about the martial arts…and one of the reasons I highly recommend it for kids and adults.
During hard training, you have to concentrate 100% on the instructor’s commands and on your movements. When sparring or fighting, you have to be totally focused on your opponent and your own strategy and tactics.
During these times, I lose all sense of obligations and responsibilites outside of the training hall.
I stop worrying about what needs to get done, or the latest problem or issue. Although these things await me, for the moment I can just …. be. And enjoy!
Performing conscious breathing, or other types of breathing exercises, can help you create these moments of presence.
When you focus on your breathing and on how your body feels in response to the breathing, you are in the moment.
And at least for this moment, you forget about responsibilities, issues, and demands.
You stop dwelling on health problems or aches and pains. And you help yourself to relax and feel calmer, more centered, and more in control…regardless of what is going on around you.
Breathing exercises and being in the moment are not instant cures for all that ails you. But awareness of your breathing and of the present moment can help you lead a calmer, more relaxed and healthier life. It can imbue everything you do with more power.
I encourage you to put these concepts to work by making them a regular part of your life.
You Can Do It!
“Best Breathing Exercises: Transform Body Mind and Spirit with Dynamic Energy Exercise!”
http://www.BestBreathingExercises.comcom
P.S. Discover how you can use your breathing to enter a state of effortless flow and power with the Secret Power of Dynamic Energy Exercise Course Volume 1: Invigorate and Rejuvenate. The movements coupled with complete breathing will invigorate, rejuvenate and relax your body, mind and spirit. Pick up your own program CD’s at the Best Breathing Exercises website.
Copyright, Karen Van Ness, 2012