SOS: Day 18
April 18, 2011 
2 Comments
Day 18
On being serene.
Habithacker meditating at Shambhala Mountain Center.
I know you’ll resist (as I once did), but I’m just going to say it.
Learn how to meditate.
There are few things that have such a big impact on your health. The benefits have been proven again and again by Western medicine and research.
I had every excuse in the book: I can’t sit still that long; I have problems with my back and neck; I’m not flexible enough to sit cross-legged; I’m not some wacko spiritual person.
Then, because of my pal Karma Kathy’s invitation, I spent a weekend at the Shambhala Mountain Center. It’s not an exaggeration to say it changed my life. Karma Kathy and I continued spending weekends there every other month that year and completed five levels of Shambhala training (there are centers worldwide). Later we went back and volunteered as aides.
The first time I went, I was in terrible shape with a neurologic disease. I could barely walk. I gimped around using a cane during walking meditation and those sitting on either side of me had to help me stand and sit.
I often think it was the meditation that turned things around for me. I do still have the disease, but I now walk an hour a day and no longer even recall where my cane is stashed. If I could do it, you can, too. And if it helped me in the shape I was in, think what it will do for you. And not just for your body….but for your brain and spirit as well.
SOS Month 1
What to do so far:
In case you missed a day, the reminders below are clickable.
Get some sun.
Do your do.
Take a walk every day.
Write down everything you eat or drink daily.
Exercise to music.
Add healthy snacks to your diet .
Start fresh every day.
Weigh yourself daily or every Wednesday.
Dine early to be on the safe side.
Remember: if you always do what you always did, then you’ll always get what you always got.
Exercising for 11 minutes is a great start.
Just start. Once you do, it seems easy.
D-day every WeDnesday.
Wear your sunscreen.
On the Ides, I’d rather be _______.
Add Menu Mondays.
Wean from your unhealthiest habit.
Learn how to meditate…or at least meditate about learning how to meditate.
Thanks, Bruce. I must admit I was quite amazed that I–of all people–would find this practice and tradition so powerful. I want everyone to have a chance to try meditating. Glad your practice has made a difference to you, too.