"What You Contemplate you Become" (St Augustine)

Ever wondered why your mind feels so busy? Ever wondered you feel anxious all the time? It’s probably because the mind is focused on a long list of “to do” things, worrying about not getting them done, and probably on what others will think if you fail to complete the list. 

Learning to notice ourselves in thought, word and action is called Svadhyaya. It’s an empowering art.

An example – in a Yoga pose we might notice a thought of “I can’t do this pose” – which means our perception will be just that – geared to negativity. If we shift our mindset to “I’m here, on the mat, becoming grounded and steady” the mental perception shifts to just that – steadiness.

Try this:
Sit down, close your eyes, take a few slow breaths to steady yourself. Ask yourself “how am I right now?” and then “how would I like to be?”

Pay real attention to “how would I like to be?”. A word or phrase will probably appear in your head – you can even write it down. Spend a few minutes repeating it to yourself. You might also be able to create or imagine a feeling that goes with that word or phrase.

Keep on noticing yourself – next time your “to do” list is all you’re thinking about, use your word or phrase – I bet your mind shifts. What you think is what you become. You can take charge!