Calming the Mind

By Michael Chojnacki and Maureen O'Day

     Our minds are a constant state of activity, like waves on a mountain lake.  A calm mind allows one to reflect things clearly the same way a still lake reflects the surrounding mountains.  The choppier the waves, the more distorted the reflection.  Only when the lake is calm can it accurately reflect its surroundings.

      When we are calm, our mind perceives naturally without any distortions or exaggerations and we are able to perceive everything correctly in a state of crystal clarity.  To recognize our true reality and reflect situations clearly, it is important to develop a calm mind.  The best way to calm the mind is to do it naturally.  Forcing one’s mind to be calm is like forcing water to be still by pressing down upon its surface.  Instead, we can learn to let the mind settle naturally, just as ripples upon the water calm down naturally when undisturbed.  

     One way to calm the mind is to calm the body, since body and mind are essentially one. To calm the body, start by sitting in a comfortable position with the back straight.  Inhale slowly and easily, filling the lungs with air, then exhaling slowly, using long, rhythmic inhalations and exhalations.  This allows the mind to follow the rhythms of breathing and heartbeat.   

     By coordinating our body and mind, we develop the natural ability to perceive everything around us with greater sensitivity, just like the calm mountain lake.  In this state, even the slightest breeze registers upon the water’s surface.  Our calm mind can easily detect subtle changes in our environment and the energy of others.  If, on the other hand, the water in the lake is already turbulent, it takes a great deal of wind before any changes are noticeable.  An agitated mind only notices the biggest changes, yet fails to notice any of the subtle changes in life, making one’s reaction to change slow or nonexistent.  An upset mind is too rigid to adapt or move with the situation.  

     A calm mind and body enables us to perceive our surroundings with greater accuracy and understanding and we are able to respond quickly to changing circumstances.  We relax in the face of pressure as we become extraordinarily adaptable.  Life begins to flow as events take their natural course and we can let people be themselves.  A calm mind allows us to recognize our true reality and gain incredible insights into any situation.

“When the mind is clouded,

we look without seeing,

listen without hearing,

and speak without understanding.”

                                                                       Old Chinese Saying

Michael Chojnacki offers Calm in the Center of the Storm for conferences, corporate retreats, or a special on-site program as part of your company’s professional development.