I quite like the idea of using imagery, I remember someone telling me that if there is a particular person, who you are finding irksome, just imagine them on the toilet. Although out of all the suggestions I find accepting stuff and feeling compassion for myself difficult. However, since I've taken up some mindfulness practices I have been challenging some of my thoughts and reactions and I've actually been able to be a little bit more compassionate with myself. Especially when I've been criticised for something or another. Instead of just "taking it" I will view the criticism and ask my self questions, first being, do I hold the same opinion? I am really like that or is there any fact in what is being said? That's when the compassion kicks in. To be honest, more often than not, I try my best at what ever I do, I try to treat others with respect and try to find a compromise when looking for solutions. I find these thoughts challenge that criticism, so I feel less depressed or anxious and I can respond to the criticism in a more positive way. Now acceptance is a different matter, I'm still working on that one!
Well I am ready for our Spring Walk in Kempley on Saturday. Really looking forward to some time in the fresh air. I enjoy this time of the year when everything is springing back into life again! So don't forget if you want to join me I will be doing the 10:30am 4 mile walk around the daffodil fields.
Next Thursday Morning meeting is on 26th March, will possibly be at St Aidan Church, I will confirm in due course. Monday meeting will be 30th March. This will probably be our last meeting at St Aidan as the church is being demolished to make room for a new one. It is likely that we will be meeting at the Oasis Centre next door to St Aidans from April. I'll keep you all posted.
Hope the coming weeks are kind to you all if I don't catch up with anyone on Saturday!
Ruth D