16/2/15
I spent quite a lot of time working out my schedule/boundaries and trying to ensure I have a clear idea of when my rest time comes. It has not been easy, but it has made me more aware of when I compromise those boundaries, and what is getting 'paid' more time, and what is getting 'debited' time.
Currently I see it as imperative that I put aside 'Golden Time' with my kids on a Wednesday afternoon -- I have to protect that time, or it will get eaten up by my own projects (baking) or my misc jobs (errands) or my lack of present-ness (answering business calls).
I have also been better at keeping my meditation appointments. They are fairly consistent Monday - Weds, and then slack off over the hectic build up to my weekend and inconvenient work commitments. However, this past Monday I took some time to recuperate and have strengthened my resolve to ensure I keep my nightly appointment 6 out of 7 nights a week.
Recently, I've been feeling as though I am very much in the present moment a lot of time, but that it comes at a cost. I will say or promise something, and the next minute something distracts me and I forget all about it. I do still have too much noise in my head and too much multi-tasking as a distraction.
I am working on incorporating more compassion and loving kindness into my meditation now. I feel I need a simpler format for a while, so I'm following this:
-- 10 mins breath awareness
-- 10 mins loving kindness toward myself and others
I was heartened to listen to this Ted Talk about the benefits of loving kindness.... maybe if enough of us do this it really will change the world: https://www.ted.com/talks/matthieu_ricard_how_to_let_altruism_be_your_guide
I am also using my awareness of each moment to guard what comes out of my mouth more. I am doing a Penny Drop for Lent... every time I criticise my husband by something I say, I drop a penny in the jar. Keeps me thinking more about what I say.
1/6/15
Heartened to read some of the above. The setting aside time on Weds is certainly paying off, and I'm developing a better sense of what my kids need from me.
