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Category Archives: SPIRITUAL HEALTH

Build a healthy spiritual mind


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Summer activities that drives compassion and kindness in kids

  1. Gratitude practice: Encourage kids to keep a gratitude journal or share things they’re grateful for daily. This helps them appreciate the good in their lives and cultivate a positive mindset.
  2. Random acts of kindness: Brainstorm small acts of kindness they can do for others, such as holding the door open, offering a compliment, or helping with a task.
  3. Volunteering: Engage kids in age-appropriate volunteer activities, such as visiting a nursing home, participating in a beach cleanup, or donating toys to a children’s hospital.
  4. Empathy exercises: Read stories or watch videos that encourage kids to understand and relate to the feelings and experiences of others.
  5. Mindfulness meditation: Practice simple breathing exercises or guided meditations that promote present-moment awareness and self-regulation.
  6. Sharing and taking turns: Encourage kids to share their toys or snacks and take turns during playtime, fostering cooperation and consideration for others.
  7. Emotion recognition: Help kids identify and label their own emotions and those of others, building emotional intelligence and empathy.
  8. Kindness challenges: Set daily or weekly kindness challenges, such as doing a chore for a family member or writing a thank-you note to someone who helped them.
  9. Role-playing: Act out scenarios that involve kindness, empathy, and conflict resolution, allowing kids to practice positive behaviors.
  10. Service learning projects: Engage kids in projects that combine academic learning with community service, fostering a sense of social responsibility.
  11. Celebrating diversity: Expose kids to different cultures, traditions, and perspectives, promoting understanding and acceptance of others.
  12. Leading by example: Model compassionate and kind behavior yourself, as children often learn best through observation and imitation.

Research has shown that practicing kindness and compassion can positively impact children’s emotional well-being, social skills, and academic performance (Flook et al., 2015). Additionally, a study by the University of British Columbia found that children who participated in kindness-based interventions showed increased peer acceptance and positive classroom behavior (Layous et al., 2012).

By making compassion and kindness a regular part of their lives, children can develop a strong foundation for empathy, respect, and social-emotional intelligence.


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Tools to calm the monkey mind

·  Meditation: A practice of focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state.

·  Yoga: A practice originating in ancient India that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote physical and mental well-being.

·  Tai Chi: A Chinese martial art that involves slow, flowing movements and deep breathing to promote relaxation and balance.

·  Qigong: A Chinese practice that combines movement, breathing, and meditation to cultivate energy and balance in the body.

·  Zen Buddhism: A school of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and the attainment of a state of mindfulness in order to achieve enlightenment.

·  Vipassana Meditation: A form of Buddhist meditation that focuses on developing insight into the nature of reality and the self.

·  Transcendental Meditation: A technique for achieving a state of deep relaxation and inner peace through the repetition of a mantra.

·  Sufism: A mystical Islamic tradition that focuses on developing a deeper understanding of God through meditation, prayer, and other spiritual practices.

·  Christian Contemplation: A practice that involves meditating on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ in order to deepen one’s relationship with God.

·  Yoga Nidra: A practice that involves guided relaxation and visualization in order to achieve a deep state of inner peace and awareness.

·  Mindfulness: A practice that involves paying attention to the present moment in a non-judgmental way in order to achieve inner calm and awareness.

·  Pranayama: A yoga practice that involves breathing exercises to control the flow of prana, or life energy, in the body.

·  Hatha Yoga: A yoga practice that focuses on physical postures and breathing exercises to improve strength and flexibility.

·  Kundalini Yoga: A yoga practice that focuses on awakening the energy at the base of the spine in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment.

·  Japa Yoga: A yoga practice that involves the repetition of a mantra in order to achieve a state of inner peace and awareness.

·  Chakra Meditation: A practice that involves focusing on the energy centers, or chakras, in the body in order to balance and align the energy flow.

·  Guided Imagery: A practice that involves using the imagination to create positive mental images in order to achieve a desired state of mind or physical condition.

·  Reiki: A practice that involves the transfer of healing energy through the hands in order to balance and align the body’s energy.

·  Sound Healing: A practice that involves using sound vibrations to promote healing and balance in the body.

·  The Enneagram: A spiritual and psychological tool that identifies nine different personality types and helps individuals understand themselves and others.

·  Shamanic Healing: A practice that involves working with spirit guides and other spiritual entities to promote healing and balance in the body.

·  The I Ching: An ancient Chinese text that is used as a divination tool to help individuals make decisions and understand their life path.

·  The Tarot: A set of cards that is used as a divination tool to help individuals understand their life path and make decisions.

·  The Law of Attraction: A principle that states that individuals can attract positive experiences and outcomes by focusing on positive thoughts and feelings.

·  The Ho’oponopono: A Hawaiian practice of forgiveness and reconciliation that is used to heal relationships and promote inner peace.


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Chinese philosophical gems for life

Here are a few examples of Chinese philosophical terms, and there are many more that reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of China. These concepts are deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and are often used in the context of self-improvement, personal development, and spiritual growth:

  1. Tao (道) – The Tao, or “Way,” is a central concept in Chinese philosophy and refers to the ultimate reality or the natural order of things. It is often described as a force that pervades all things and is the source of all existence.
  2. Yin and Yang (阴阳) – Yin and Yang are two complementary forces that are said to make up the universe. Yin represents femininity, darkness, and receptivity, while Yang represents masculinity, light, and action. Together, they create balance and harmony in the world.
  3. Confucianism (儒家) – Confucianism is a system of thought and ethics that emphasizes the importance of education, social order, and moral behavior. It is based on the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius and is one of the most influential philosophical systems in Chinese history.
  4. Daoism (道家) – Daoism is a philosophical and religious tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao and the natural world. It is based on the teachings of Laozi and emphasizes simplicity, spontaneity, and non-action.
  5. Legalism (法家) – Legalism is a philosophical system that emphasizes strict laws and harsh punishment to maintain social order. It was popular during the Warring States period in ancient China and is often associated with the philosopher Han Fei.
  6. Moism (墨家) – Moism is a philosophical system that emphasizes the importance of understanding and mastering the natural world through observation and experimentation. It was developed by the Chinese philosopher Mozi and is often considered a precursor to Confucianism and Daoism.
  7. Mohism (墨子) – Mohism is a Chinese philosophy that emphasizes universal love and the idea that all people are equal. It’s found in the works of Mozi, a Chinese philosopher and his followers.
  8. Wu Wei (无为) – Wu Wei is a concept in Chinese philosophy that refers to the idea of “non-action” or “effortless action.” It means acting in accordance with the natural order of things, and not trying to force things to happen.
  9. Qi (气) – Qi is a concept in Chinese philosophy that refers to the vital energy or life force that animates all living things. It is often associated with the idea of balance and harmony, and is said to be the foundation of good health and well-being.
  10. Ren (仁) – Ren is a key concept in
  11. Confucianism and refers to the virtue of benevolence or humaneness. It emphasizes the importance of compassion, empathy, and treating others with kindness and respect. According to Confucius, the goal of education and self-cultivation is to cultivate Ren and become a virtuous person.
  12. Li (礼) – Li is a key concept in Confucianism and refers to the practice of ritual and propriety. It emphasizes the importance of social etiquette, customs, and traditions in maintaining social order and harmony.
  13. Junzi (君子) – Junzi is a term used in Confucianism to describe a person of virtue and integrity. It refers to a noble or superior person who embodies the virtues of Ren, Li, and wisdom.
  14. Wu (无) – Wu is a concept in Chinese philosophy that refers to the idea of nothingness or emptiness. It is often associated with the Taoist concept of Wu Wei, and emphasizes the importance of letting go of attachments and desires in order to achieve inner peace and harmony.
  15. Qi Gong (气功) – Qi Gong is a Chinese practice that combines physical movements, breathing techniques, and meditation to cultivate and balance the body’s qi energy. It is often used for health and wellness purposes and is considered as a form of martial art, traditional Chinese medicine and spiritual practice.


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Mindfulness practices and concepts for our kids

Here is a list of some popular Japanese philosophical terms and their short meanings:

  1. Wabi-sabi: Acceptance of transience and imperfection; finding beauty in the imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete.
  2. Zen: A form of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and self-awareness as a means of achieving spiritual enlightenment.
  3. Shinto: Japan’s indigenous religion, which emphasizes the worship of nature spirits and ancestor spirits.
  4. Bushido: The code of conduct and way of life of the samurai, emphasizing loyalty, respect, courage, and self-discipline.
  5. Mono no aware: The awareness of the transience of things and the bittersweet beauty of life.
  6. Ikigai: The reason for being, the connection between one’s passion, mission, vocation and profession.
  7. Yūgen: A profound, mysterious sense of the beauty of the universe and the sad beauty of human suffering.
  8. Hara: The center of the body and mind, a connection to the earth, the source of inner strength and balance.
  9. Mokomokai: The mindfulness of the present moment and the interconnectedness of all things.
  10. Shugyo: A spiritual discipline and the pursuit of self-improvement through ascetic practices.

These are just a few examples of Japanese philosophical terms, and there are many more that reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Japan. Many of these concepts are rooted in Buddhism and Shintoism, which have had a profound influence on Japanese culture. These terms have been adopted and adapted in various ways by different cultures, and are often used in the context of mindfulness, self-improvement, and personal development.


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Practicing Mindfulness

What is it?

A state of present and personal awareness which encompasses cognitive, emotional, and sensory functions to empower an individual to respond productively to the demands of daily life.

It is not a religion, a silver bullet or a short-term solution.

nature love people woman
Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com

Why?

Mindfulness has shown to:

  • Improve life satisfaction
  • Decrease emotional exhaustion
  • Cope with situations and changes
  • And combat stress

How?

Exercise 1: Breath control

  • Inhale slowly while counting mentally 1, 2, 3 and 4
  • Hold your breath and mentally count 4 seconds
  • Exhale slowly while counting mentally 1, 2, 3 and 4
  • And finally rest mentally for 4 seconds before re-starting the inhalation cycle.

Exercise 2: Meditation

  • Create a regular time and space that is free of external distractions
  • Start with 5 minute and gradually increase up to 30 minutes
  • Choose a comfortable sitting position with the feet touching the ground/grass
  • Sit up straight, shoulder square, tongue resting on the roof of the palate, eyes closed
  • Start with deep breathing till you achieve a comfortable rhythm
  • Focus on one part of body where the breath feels prominent: (like nostril, diaphragm, throat)
  • Maintain attention to the breath
  • If mind wanders, accept it and keep returning your attention to our breathing
  • When timer rings, give thanks to the universe, rub palms vigorously and gently apply the warmth to your eyes and face and gently open your eyes

Resource:

Wandering mind not a happy mind – Harvard Gazette


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Happiness Secrets

Things to teach our kids:

Before you say something bad, think about those who can’t talk and say something back.

Before you complain about the taste or variety of your food, remember there are starving people in the world.

Before you yell at your partner, think of how lonely some people feel as they go to sleep in an empty bed.

Before you complain about the state of things today, think about all the people who never got to see this day.Before you get upset because the house is a mess, remember that there are people who don’t have a roof over their head.

Before you let traffic and long commutes irritate you, think about how fortunate you are to have a job and a car.

Before you point an accusing finger at someone, remember that you’re not perfect, and you make mistakes too.

And the most important rule of them all:

Before you let a depressing thought ruin your mood, put a smile on your face and be thankful you’re alive!

Source: Internet & Others

The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.


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FIVE LITTLE STORIES

From a friend

DEALING WITH LIFE’S CIRCUMSTANCES

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CRUX OF SPIRITUALITY

I hope our kids realize this as they enter adulthood.


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CAN SOMEONE SUGGEST A WAY OUT OF THIS?

A 2012 study in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine found that higher patient satisfaction was associated with higher spending on overall health care and prescription drugs.

Case in point? Antibiotics.

Dashing off an antibiotic prescription is a win-win for some docs & patients. It saves time for docs and makes patients happy.

However, while takes two minutes to write a prescription, it takes 10 to 15 minutes to explain why you don’t need an antibiotic or why you should do the wait-and-watch or try-a natural approach.

These approaches take time and don’t necessarily make parents happy immediately.

What’s more, overuse of antibiotics is linked to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Each year in the U.S., at least two million people become ill because of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, and at least 23,000 people die each year as a direct result of these infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

So, how does doctor please his patient, keep cost low and yet not resort to quick fixes and more testing?

Thoughts?

THE ELEMENTARY THING THAT WE FORGET ABOUT LIFE

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TEENS – REFLECT ON THIS STRENGTH

STAND UP to Bullies


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7% BY REGINA BRETT

"7%"

Written by a 90 year old Regina Brett, 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio .

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I’ve ever written.

My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short – enjoy it.

4. Your friends and family will take care of you when you are sick.. Give them your time.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don’t have to win every argument. Stay true to yourself.

7. Cry with someone. It’s more healing than crying alone.

8. It’s OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present.

12. It’s OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn’t be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye, but don’t worry, God never blinks.

16.. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn’t useful. Clutter weighs you down in many ways.

18. Whatever doesn’t kill you really does make you stronger.

19.. It’s never too late to be happy. But it’s all up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don’t take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy clothes. Don’t save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don’t wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words ‘In five years, will this matter?’

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn’t do.

35. Don’t audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative of dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. Accept what you already have, not what you need

42. The best is yet to come…

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift."

ZEN AND THE WISDOM ON KNOWLEDGE

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