Handling self-criticism is an essential aspect of personal growth and emotional well-being. It involves a conscious effort to shift from a critical inner voice to a more supportive and understanding one. One effective strategy is to investigate the origins of your self-critical thoughts. Understanding where these thoughts come from can provide insight into why they persist and how to address them. Changing the language around self-criticism is also crucial; instead of harsh and negative self-talk, try to speak to yourself with kindness and compassion, as you would to a friend.
Setting up a self-criticism jar can be a tangible way to monitor and reduce critical thoughts. Each time you catch yourself being self-critical, write it down and place it in the jar. This can help you become more aware of the frequency and content of your self-criticism. Enlisting support from friends, family, or a therapist can provide you with different perspectives and strategies to combat self-critical thoughts. Practicing loving-kindness meditation can foster a sense of goodwill towards yourself and others, which can counteract negative self-judgments.
Breathing exercises can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to deal with self-critical thoughts when they arise. Celebrating your wins, no matter how small, can boost your self-esteem and reduce the impact of self-criticism. Replacing your inner critic with a neutral or even positive voice can change the way you respond to mistakes and setbacks.
In addition to these strategies, engaging in self-care activities like exercise, hobbies, or creative pursuits can bolster self-esteem and reduce self-criticism. Cognitive restructuring techniques, which involve identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, can also be beneficial. Mindfulness practices can help you stay present and engaged, reducing the tendency to ruminate on self-critical thoughts.
Understanding the effects of self-criticism and learning from it can transform not just your work, but your relationships and overall perspective on personal development. By embracing critique constructively, staying calm, and responding thoughtfully, you empower yourself to improve continuously. Therapy focused on reframing negative thought patterns into positive ones and improving self-esteem can establish a strong foundation of self-compassion.
Lastly, it's important to recognize that everyone engages in self-criticism at times, and it's a natural part of the human experience. However, when it becomes toxic, it's crucial to take steps to overcome it. Paying attention to your thoughts and being aware of the inner dialogue can help you start making changes. Remember, the goal is not to eliminate self-criticism entirely but to manage it in a way that supports your growth and well-being. By implementing these strategies, you can create a more balanced and compassionate inner narrative.
Loving-kindness meditation, also known as Metta meditation, is a practice that cultivates an attitude of love and kindness towards everything, even one's enemies and sources of stress. While traditionally part of Buddhist practices, it's a universal practice that anyone can adopt. It involves mentally sending goodwill, kindness, and warmth towards others by silently repeating a series of mantras. Here's a step-by-step guide to practicing loving-kindness meditation:
1. Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down.
2. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to relax your body and mind.
3. Begin by focusing on yourself. Silently repeat phrases of goodwill towards yourself, such as "May I be happy," "May I be healthy," "May I be safe," "May I live with ease."
4. After a period of directing loving-kindness towards yourself, begin to picture a loved one in your mind and repeat the phrases towards them.
5. Gradually expand your meditation to include others: friends, acquaintances, strangers, and even enemies. Envision each person clearly as you repeat the phrases, "May you be happy," "May you be healthy," "May you be safe," "May you live with ease."
6. Finally, extend these thoughts of loving-kindness to all beings in the world, without limitation, sending positive energy out into the universe.
It's important to genuinely feel the intention behind the words as you say them, as the emotional connection is key to the meditation's effectiveness. If you find your mind wandering, gently redirect your focus back to the phrases of loving-kindness. The practice can be done for any length of time, but even a few minutes can be beneficial.
As you continue with regular practice, you may find that this sense of loving-kindness grows stronger and begins to influence how you interact with yourself and others throughout your day. It's a powerful tool for developing compassion and reducing negative emotions such as anger and resentment.
Having a coven and a family to count on helps your issues as well. Learn that when you hold that negative energy it hurt who you are, who your family see and who your community sees. That energy spurs the poisons in the soul and we as a community can help if you just have faith in who we are. Anger management can help if you have patients for group therapy, if not my friend we have licensed councilors to help, and our ministers will as much as they can.
Loving-kindness meditation, known as Metta in Pali, is a practice aimed at developing unconditional love and kindness towards all beings. While the traditional form involves repeating phrases of goodwill towards oneself and others, there are variations that can complement this practice and cater to different preferences or needs. One such variation is Karuna meditation, which focuses on cultivating compassion. This practice involves visualizing others in distress and extending feelings of compassion and relief towards them.
Another variation is Mudita meditation, which is centered on appreciative joy. Instead of focusing on suffering, Mudita encourages the practitioner to rejoice in the happiness and success of others, thus countering feelings of envy or jealousy. Uppekha meditation, or equanimity meditation, is another complementary practice that aims to develop a balanced state of mind, remaining undisturbed by both joy and sorrow.
Some practitioners may incorporate visualization techniques, where instead of repeating phrases, they visualize sending out waves of kindness or light from their heart to others. Mantra meditations can also be a variation, where a specific mantra is chanted to invoke the feeling of loving-kindness. Open-focus meditations allow for a broader awareness, where the practitioner sends loving-kindness to wherever attention naturally rests, rather than directing it through phrases.
Breath-based variations of loving-kindness meditation involve synchronizing the phrases of Metta with the breath, which can help deepen concentration and the emotional resonance of the practice. For those who find it challenging to generate feelings of loving-kindness, starting with gratitude meditation can be a helpful precursor, as it naturally opens the heart and makes it easier to transition into loving-kindness.
In group settings, guided loving-kindness meditations can be powerful, where a leader guides the entire group through the phrases and visualizations, creating a collective energy of goodwill. Walking Metta meditation is another variation where practitioners mentally repeat the phrases in sync with their steps during a mindful walk.
For individuals seeking a more secular approach, loving-kindness can be practiced without any spiritual or religious connotations, focusing purely on the psychological benefits of cultivating positive emotions. Some may also find it beneficial to write down the phrases and reflect on them as part of a journaling practice.
Regardless of the variation chosen, the core intention of loving-kindness meditation remains the same: to nurture a heart full of love, kindness, and goodwill towards oneself and all beings. It's a flexible practice that can be adapted to suit individual needs and circumstances, making it accessible and beneficial for a wide range of people.
Incorporating variations of loving-kindness meditation into your daily practice can enhance its benefits and keep your routine fresh and engaging. Start by setting a specific time each day for your meditation practice, creating a habit that can seamlessly integrate into your lifestyle. You might begin your day with a few minutes of Metta meditation to set a positive tone or use it as a way to unwind in the evening.
Consider alternating between different variations of loving-kindness meditation throughout the week. For example, you could practice traditional Metta on Monday, focus on Karuna or compassion meditation on Tuesday, and then Mudita or appreciative joy meditation on Wednesday. This rotation can help you develop a well-rounded emotional resilience.
You can also link your meditation practice to specific activities or triggers throughout the day. For instance, you might decide to engage in a brief session of loving-kindness meditation after exercising, while waiting in line, or during a break at work. This can help you return to a state of calm and centeredness during stressful moments.
Another approach is to use the phrases from loving-kindness meditation as mantras during your day. Silently repeat phrases like "May I be happy" or "May all beings be at peace" whenever you need a moment of calm or when you encounter someone who seems in need of positive energy.
Incorporating visualization techniques can also be powerful. Visualize sending out waves of kindness or light from your heart to others, whether they are close to you or across the globe. This can be done in a quiet moment at home or even while commuting.
For a more active approach, try walking Metta meditation. As you walk, synchronize the phrases of loving-kindness with your steps. This can be a refreshing way to combine physical activity with mental and emotional well-being.
If you find it challenging to generate feelings of loving-kindness, start with gratitude meditation. Reflecting on what you're thankful for can open your heart and make it easier to transition into loving-kindness.
Remember to be patient with yourself as you explore these variations. It's normal to encounter resistance, especially when directing kindness towards oneself or difficult people. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment and gently return to your practice.
Lastly, don't hesitate to seek out resources and guided meditations, which can provide structure and inspiration for your practice. Whether through apps, online communities, or local meditation groups, connecting with others can enrich your experience and provide support as you incorporate these variations into your daily routine.
By experimenting with these different approaches and finding what resonates with you, you can build a loving-kindness practice that not only suits your personal preferences but also grows with you over time. The key is consistency and openness to the transformative power of Metta, which can foster empathy, happiness, and a profound sense of peace within yourself and towards others.
Overcoming resistance during meditation is a common challenge, but it can be addressed with mindful strategies. First, recognize the presence of resistance without judgment; simply acknowledging its existence can diminish its power. It's helpful to understand that resistance is a natural response, often rooted in fear or discomfort with stillness and introspection. Instead of fighting it, gently turn your attention to the sensations and emotions that accompany the resistance. Where do you feel it in your body? What thoughts are associated with it? By observing these elements, you're already engaging in a form of meditation.
Creating a conducive environment for meditation can also reduce resistance. Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you're unlikely to be disturbed. Establishing a routine can provide structure, making it easier to settle into your practice. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable. Additionally, incorporating variety in your practice can keep it interesting and engaging. Experiment with different meditation techniques, such as focused attention, mindfulness, or loving-kindness, to find what resonates with you.
Self-compassion is key when dealing with resistance. Remind yourself that meditation is a practice, and like any skill, it requires patience and persistence. If you miss a session or find it difficult to concentrate, don't be harsh on yourself. Instead, offer words of encouragement and reassurance, just as you would to a friend. Remember, each time you return to meditation despite resistance, you're strengthening your resolve and deepening your practice.
When resistance arises, try shifting your focus to your breath. Breathing mindfully can anchor you in the present moment and help you reconnect with your meditation intentions. Visualizations can also be effective; imagine the resistance as a cloud passing through a clear sky, acknowledging its presence but not allowing it to dominate your experience. Loving-kindness phrases can be directed towards the resistance itself, cultivating an attitude of acceptance and care towards your inner experiences.
In some cases, resistance may be linked to deeper emotional issues. If this is the case, it might be beneficial to explore these feelings with a therapist or meditation teacher who can provide guidance and support. They can help you navigate the underlying causes of resistance and develop personalized strategies to overcome it.
Lastly, remember that meditation is not about achieving a perfect state of calm, but rather about observing and accepting whatever arises, including resistance. With time and practice, you'll likely find that your capacity to handle resistance improves, and the moments of clarity and peace within your meditation sessions become more frequent and profound. Embrace the journey, and be open to the lessons that both meditation and resistance have to offer.
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If your poison is so far gone that no one can get you under control we will help you become institutionalized. Understanding oneself is liberating and uplifting. We are here to help not punish anyone. We try to harm none.
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As humans we typically fear what we do not understand. Death is, and always has been one of the great mysteries, and it is also one of few things in life that is an absolute. No living person knows or understands what happens to us after we die. We simply know that it is going to happen... eventually. We don't know where we go, or if we will return as something/someone else. There are many religions that have ideas about what might happen after we die, but nobody knows for sure.
I know a bit about that subject. Growing up my favorite saying around females was "Gotta love me, Mikey loves everybody"
It is one thing to be naive about things... you can be taught how to do it for the next time. You can be, and that is OK. The problem is when you choose not to learn on purpose. Then believe by using that knowledge you will succeed when you were told it was wrong. (You have heard the term you cannot fix stupid?)... turns out there is a cure but the person needs to lose the egoism before it can be done.Tricking yourself into believing it is correct... as the naked man walks down the street saying he is wearing clothing turns to someone and says How do my pants look?, truly thinking his pants look just fine and that is what he ask the judge when he walked into his chambers
I am here to tell you about Raga: It is a poison /sickness in a person’s soul. Please, do not confuse it with Polyamory in any way. The monogamous folks would disagree with my statement but hear me out and judge me after you have read my page. Raga is desire “lust" that you cannot get rid of very easy. Kind of like bed bugs. especially if you want to ignore the issues right front of you. It can happen to both women and men from early teens until ☠ death.
Aggression/ Aversion Before I found myself, and before I got help, I personally was truly a reck. I destroyed my life a lot because of lame reasons that do not matter anymore. You know, simple stuff, like that person is breathing and I do not feel they should be... (I GOT HELP FOR THIS IN SEVERAL DIFFERENT WAYS!!!). I did not go there because I did not have a little anger problem, my life is just great... that is what I am told after they say why are you angry/ hostile? Anger management (what a joke for someone like me) I did that because someone wanted to fix me. When I was serious about my cure I did hard core inpatient therapy, medicated treatment, with classes (I believe those worked).I had a handle on it until my three week old daughter was thrown into a chair ... then I lost it. So, I went back to anger management to find out everyone has a trigger and seeing my daughter get abused was my trigger. I tried to make amends with her mother but after years of trying I gave up. We do not fight anymore, and we keep our distance from each other. I have been at peace ever since.Aversion is the match to the flame of Aggression. You have a cause and effect as I understand it. Aversion is the devil on your shoulder. You need to ignore that little guy because he talks to insecurity, jealousy, greed, and all the other negative feelings. These things start breaking down your mental health.
These are the five poisons that can kill you as you can see there are many different ways to notice each thing they are written first Sanskrit then explained in english.
If you have a story to add that is relevant to what is written than we will post what you have. please, refrain from negative words of swearing out . This kind of thing will not get it published on our site. We hear it out there we do not need it here. Anger management, alcoholics anonymous, sex addicts of all sorts, and other fears in these realms of thought.
Welcome to the darkside, we would liked your stories of your darkside, I am hoping for so many stories as you know I made two area for it
lads and lasses I am here to tell you of the wee (little) people the chrystle Ilse, or field of green and how the veil of the after this life hides them. The children to day call it a dimension. A place & people we can not see, nore feel or smell. Yet in this place we have smelled a smell that did not belong in that time or place, or objects have been moved or hidden and there is no earthly reason it should have moved. I be looking for imps, pixies, elves, & dwarves that some how slip through the vail. I know the veil exists and the only way to pass through is out of body fanominah, near death,drug use (uforeah), or death. Other people have died and come back they can tell you their stories and I know from personal experience they are around so look up your legend and lore to keep them happy. Those who are skeptic will tell you "we do not know about after death until we are dead." Believe or not believe it does not matter me either way, and when the wee one are ticked at you and the mischief happens you can't say you were not warned.
The story of loki and his punishments is well known through story and legend. Loki was tie to a rock in hell made by the Gods black smith and Mighty Oden Tied Loki to it for all time until Ragnarök comes.
Care as we Know it now:
Over the years I have see things change so much folks, In the hospitals form what I seen in the old days rich poor or even middle class it did not matter what you were , if you needed care they took care of you. Now only the rich or people with credit get care of any worth. My father a hard wiring blue collar worker ripped tendons in his arm... THE DOCTOR SAID "You are to old for me to treat you" I found ound dad was having money problems and he never had good credit since I was a boy. So How should I feel when they do not except a necessary surgery un yet when a Child under 21 walks in with cash/ credit wow, now I am the opposite sex. That proves the hole world is money talk and 463574365498 walks. When I was a cna we seen all levels of income. I am sorry I lost respect for my own profession. I once loved it, but now my head hangs low. I apologize to the professionals who still believe in the old ways, these statements are not for you.
As a man of spiritual service I swear You come before my pocket book in "MOST" cases no matter your financial level or where your credit stands. Hustlers will be delt with. We will help where we can. Hustlers steel from you, and when they hustle us they not only do to it to us, they also do it to you because that is how we were going to help you.(A lot of things we do for you we do not charge any one.) So Please, understand if we can not help at the time. When we are complete we will be able to help you with all of your spiritual needs.
A tom boy is a tom boy... play with the boys, IT IS OK it does not mean you are a real boy... Pinocchio syndrome is what I would all this " I WANT TO BE A REAL... ..."
jiminy cricket " outside sources of conscious are not real", but the other influences are. "Oh my other two friend are that way so I want to do it." example: Drinking
when you walk down the street then you did not need to fear people touching you on the shoulder. Our young adults scare every bit of who I am... when we grew up if we had half the thoughts they had we would either be incarcerated, put in the psych hospital, or have the daemons drawn from our bodies, or just get the crap kicked out us to hide our train of thought or even change the thought. Now the cutting and slash does not quit and the people who are wrong are the ones who like as few cut on the human body. " homosexual is homosexual," why do you need to cut on yourselves... their is a disease I heard of, they actually named it but, I do not remember the name but it is out there. (you mangle your body with surgery to change themselves because, there is something wrong with themselves.) Don't get me wrong I will support your freedom of choice with your own body. What Does your chi look like after the mutilation of your body? I have to ask, "I am sure the patient in the beginning they would say (oh, I am great ... I feel like who I was supposed to be.) children in the future? doing this are you thinking that can be done? science from what I see how no know how yet making any of it natural. I AM NOT RIDICULING YOU, BUT AS A OLDER MINISTER I HAVE TO ASK "WHAT ARE YOU THINKING & WHY ARE YOU WANTING TO BE THE LAST OF YOUR DIRECT BLOOD LINE , I MEAN TRUTHFULLY IS YOUR FAMILY THAT EVIL?" By stopping your bloodline does that disrespect/ dishonor your family, elders, and generations from long before. remember I stand behind you but, If I do You need to know how I truly feel. Now I have said my piece. with or without the surgeries you will be loved for who your true spirit says you are.
Since my biological daughter was young her first mother has promoted a different lifestyle, so I am waiting for her to come to me and say dad I want this. It will break my heart even more then when I lost her to our divorce and the crap that happened. I will support and try to teach my daughter no matter what kind of mental illness she shows. My Kin and Kindred will get my love and support and as a coven member you are Kindred.
Since we are an organization that is built for the preservation of family I feel I need to say, first off you are kindred to us and you are loved. You need to understand we are will to try to help you through the issues you may have. Shoot he the other day a man I knew learn how Bdsm works for people but other people snub it. another example a couple/ few people learned of polyamory these things freed them inside, knowing where they belong. YOU CAN NOT SAY YOU BELONG NO WHERE! We will find your soul, spirit, mind, and feelings a home to be at peace with itself in a Pagan manner.
You may be doing something wrong for your "soul" by your personal standards, why can't We help and get it fixed so you are on the right path for you. When You come to us for help you are our kindred (as long as we are not being scammed.)
If you are looking at marriage or divorce there are two song I need you to listen to first then evaluate your decision please. (1) Grandpa tell me about the good old days by the Judd's (2) R.E.S.P.E.C.T. by Aretha Franklin. After you have clearly hear the message in both those song call the office (231) 252-2165 or contact me on my field number (231) 492-8217 A.S.A.P. and we will try to work it out. have ready your name, need, why you need, and we can work on the how together. Before you cast a dark feeling about anything please read through the areas here you have question about. Call at any time... please understand we are in bed from 2100 hours (9:00 p.m.) to 0500 hours (5:00 a.m.) so it might take a minute to get to the phone, or text us at houseofpaganpride@gmail.com
If you are sick (noncontaguous please) We will try to come see you. If it is something like cancer, heart disease, or an s.t.i./s.t.d. We will try to help with whatever we can do and always pray for you from each one of our faiths so you have prayers, chants and incantations from around the world. the song it's a wonderful world by Louis Armstrong comes to mind for a little peace of mind. Sound of silence by: disturbed Personally, I want those song when people think of me instead of amazing grace. enough about me... what is going on with you?
WE HAVE A 24 HOUR HOT LINE... CALL (231) 492-8217 IF YOU GET THE MECHINE WE WILL CALL YOU BACK A.S.A.P. IF IT IS A SPIRITUAL EMERGACY HANG UP AND CALL RIGHT BACK. IF YOU CAN PLEASE CALL DURING REGULAR BUISNESS HOURS IF POSSIBLE. ALL OTHER EMERGENCIES PLEASE CALL 911 OR WHAT EVER IT IS IN YOUR AREA. Even if Du Hast song by Rammstein, or She HATES ME by: puddle of mud is going on we can really try to help.
The questions you're asking touch on profound topics that have been explored in various philosophical and theological traditions throughout history. The concept of reincarnation, for instance, is a central tenet in many Eastern religions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, where it's believed that the soul undergoes a series of births, deaths, and rebirths. In contrast, Christianity, with its belief in Jesus Christ, typically holds the view of a single life followed by an afterlife. The idea of demigods comes from ancient mythologies, where they are often depicted as beings with divine and human parentage, possessing extraordinary powers.
These narratives serve to provide frameworks for understanding the human experience and our place in the universe. They offer ways to interpret the nature of consciousness, existence, and the moral dimensions of our actions. Whether these entities or deities are literal truths, metaphors, or cultural expressions, they reflect humanity's quest to make sense of the world and our role within it.
In the end, what we are and the truth of who we are may be seen as questions of personal belief or faith, shaped by individual experiences, cultural backgrounds, and introspection. For some, these questions are answered through religious or spiritual beliefs, while for others, they may be approached through scientific inquiry or philosophical reasoning. The diversity of beliefs and perspectives on these matters speaks to the complexity and richness of the human condition. It's a journey of exploration that each person undertakes in their own way, seeking answers to some of life's most enduring questions.
The quest to understand the influence of faith on the world is a profound one, touching upon the core beliefs and traditions that have shaped human history. The Kabbalah, the Bible, the Quran, and the Tao Te Ching are indeed foundational texts of their respective faiths—Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Taoism—and each offers a unique perspective on spirituality and ethics. These texts have not only guided individual lives but have also had a significant impact on culture, law, and philosophy throughout the ages.
The influence of these religious teachings can be seen in the moral frameworks they provide, the art and literature they inspire, and the social and political structures they have helped to shape. For instance, the principles of compassion and charity found in the Bible have been integral to the development of Western humanitarian efforts. Similarly, the concept of social justice in Islam has played a role in movements for equity and fairness across the world. The Kabbalah's mystical interpretations of the universe have influenced various aspects of Jewish thought and tradition, while the Tao or the IChing's teachings on harmony and balance resonate with contemporary ecological and philosophical discussions.
Religion has been a source of inspiration, conflict, and transformation throughout history. It has united communities under a common purpose and has also been the basis for division and strife. The spread of these faiths and their cultural influence is a testament to their enduring power and the human search for meaning and connection. The interplay between religion and society is dynamic; as societies evolve, so too do the interpretations and practices of their religions.
In the modern world, the influence of religion continues to be significant, even as secularism rises in certain parts of the globe. Faith shapes morals and values, influences laws and customs, and provides a sense of identity and community. It's important to recognize that while each faith offers its own path to the divine, the underlying human yearning for understanding and purpose is a common thread that connects all religious traditions. This shared quest for meaning transcends individual doctrines and speaks to the universal human condition.
In conclusion, while it may be challenging to quantify the 'most' influential faith, as influence can be measured in countless ways, it is clear that each of these faiths has profoundly shaped the world in various aspects. The true measure of their influence perhaps lies in their ability to inspire individuals to seek a greater understanding of themselves and the world around them. Religion, in its many forms, continues to be a powerful force in shaping human civilization and the collective consciousness of humanity.
Religious texts, despite their diverse origins and the unique contexts in which they were written, often share common themes that reflect the universal human experience. These themes include the nature of the divine, the moral and ethical conduct expected of believers, the importance of community and ritual in religious life, and the quest for an understanding of life's purpose.
The nature of the divine is a central theme, where texts often describe the characteristics of God or gods, their relationship with humanity, and the ways in which they interact with the world. This includes the concept of revelation, where the divine communicates with humans, often providing guidance and wisdom.
Moral and ethical conduct is another significant theme, with many religious texts outlining commandments or laws that dictate how individuals should behave towards one another and what constitutes a virtuous life. These moral codes often promote values such as compassion, justice, and humility, and serve as a guide for personal and communal living.
Community and ritual are also prominent themes, as religious texts frequently discuss the importance of maintaining a religious community and the various rituals that should be performed to honor the divine. This includes instructions for prayer, meditation, and worship, as well as guidelines for religious ceremonies and festivals.
Lastly, the quest for understanding life's purpose is a theme that resonates across many religious texts. They often explore questions of existence, suffering, and the afterlife, offering explanations for the human condition and providing a framework for understanding the world and our place in it.
These themes are not only reflective of the religious and spiritual concerns of the times in which the texts were written but also continue to be relevant today, as they address fundamental questions about human nature and the search for meaning. The enduring appeal of these texts lies in their ability to speak to these universal aspects of the human experience, transcending time and cultural differences. The shared themes across religious texts highlight the commonalities in human thought and the ongoing dialogue between faith and reason throughout human history.
