Mindfulness and Mental Prep.

 A new week has begun. While I like most people don't look forward to Mondays, I do like that another week has passed and we are one week closer to Autumn and also my trip to Alaska. The weekend was hot so I was mostly indoors. My son was in town and we watched a few movies. I upped my steps on the stair-stepper and went from 75 to 100 (150 - 200 stair steps)  without really planning to. I wasn't paying attention and before I knew it I had exceeded my goal to go to 80 steps this week. I did do 100 again this morning. 

Part of preparing to do the EBC trek is to prepare mentally. It takes a determined mind to overcome some of the hardships that will be encountered on the trail. Hiking uphill for hours at a time is what is most worrisome for me. It is because of that fear that I am working out so diligently on the steps. I am a bit concerned about the altitude but I think I can overcome some of the challenges it will bring by just taking a slow steady pace and working on my breathing beforehand. I have mentioned in previous posts that I practice the Wim Hoff breathing technique. I also focus my breathing during yoga and meditation. I used to be interested in Mindfulness and Buddhism and trying to live more in the present. I slipped away from it and let the world and life distract me. I have realized that I need to return to that place and re-devote myself to the practice of mindfulness and the study of Buddhism. I can see where mentally this will be of great benefit to completing my goals but also helping me to enjoy my life in a more peaceful and caring way. I have always been  impressed by the philosophy of Buddhism and the guidance it  gives to living a kind life,  a peacefulness of the soul and teaching others. I am ready to take life at a slower more mindful pace. To live life aware of the moment I am in. I am letting go of the past and the pain that continued as I struggled to let it go. I knew that I had to release it because the closure I wanted would never be forthcoming. So I am closing that door and looking at what is in front of me. 

I want to live my life to inspire. While I need to focus on myself and my goals I need to love and care for those around me. To live my life as an example. I had a close friend that felt he lived a life of mindfulness. His life had been difficult and he had overcome many hardships and family disfunctions . He was so focused on himself though and looking after himself that he could be hurtful to those around him. He was only living in his moment and so focused on it that he neglected those around him. I think that may be why I drifted away from the teachings of the Buddha when instead I should have immersed myself and have been an inspiration to him.