You undoubtedly have noticed exploring the mystery is fixated on the concept of attention.
Much to my delight, Bob Klein* continues to provide email comments for us to ponder. Doing so, he adds fuel to my enthusiasm.
Writing helps process information, so buckle your seat belts. We are going to clarify, add new insights, and begin deepening our understanding of what we've learned in the past six posts.
According to Klein, the nature of unskillful attention is to condense. Think of it this way, whether our goal is making, saving, giving, or spending money, our tendency is to tense up when we focus on our desired outcome.
This tension condenses our attention. Soon all we can think about is our plan. We may cut off from others because we want to get away from the pressure and mistakenly judge that the pressure is external when in reality it is internal.
Condensed attention usually contains fear which can easily snuff the joy out of any desire.
Fear can lead to obsessiveness if our progress appears to be threatened. Some of us, despite the fruitless nature of trying to control life, fear loss of control.
These are examples of trapped Yang (pronounced with same sound as yawn) attention.
When we are able to dissolve the condensation of our attention, attention expands and softens. Then we move into Yin attention.
Next week we will explore yin energy.
Those dealing with medical treatments that require technical precision to heal the body and the use of symbols and images for healing the mind/psyche, will need to cultivate mostly yang attention.
Yang attention helps us focus on the task at hand. Cultivated yin attention can offer relief from the stress present in dealing with the medical community but a focus on following Doctor's orders and listening to Self is primary for this season.
This week, notice when your attention becomes trapped. Set it free! Email me if you have comments or questions.
Thanks for exploring the mystery - Nicky Mendenhall
*You can learn more about Bob by visiting his website: www.movementsofmagic.com.
If you would like to read earlier posts in this series or subscribe to receive an email when there is a new post, visit www.NickyMendenhall.blogspot.com
