Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Had a dinner conversation last week about improving memory through the act of mindfulness. Per Wikipedia, mindfulness is the practice whereby a person is intentionally aware of his or her thoughts and actions in the present moment, non-judgementally. Interesting concept, I thought. So I decided to try it. Believe it or not, attempting to focus on normal day-to-day activities was extremely difficult. I found my mind just migrating to random thoughts every time I tried to concentrate. Defeated, I continued on with my regular activities.
Well, in the search of a New South Wales, Lonely Planet guidebook for my upcoming trip to Tamworth for the Tamworth Country Music Festival, I encountered "Beginning Mindfulness" by Andres Weiss. It's a ten-week program. The first week involves being conscious of your breath for the first five minutes of waking. After the 5 minutes and before getting up, make a smile. The reverse on the way to sleep. Cute concept, yeah? So far, I've "been on the program" for 2 days. I still can't recall the 4 words Bob had us memorize last week... maybe tomorrow.
What's this funky picture on today's post? Phil has me babysitting one of his prints while he travels the world for 2 years. Happy travels and don't forget to pick up your print from Alice Springs when you return! Phil is selling his prints for $200AU. Here's more.
... boy would I like an iphone.
