Unit 8: Optimal Well-Being

The two exercises I thought were most beneficial to me were the loving kindness and the meditation exercises. I really enjoyed the loving kindness because it helped me to think positively, along with making me think about my husband, who is very important in my life. When I think about him, I just want to smile and be happy. The meditation exercise is also very much an important part of my life now too. I make sure to take time for myself to just sit, relax, and be alone. I think that I never made time just for myself, but now that I know I can, it has made such a positive impact in my life. After I meditate for a couple of minutes during the day, I feel so much better; I feel the stress the leaving my body. The effects of meditation are similar to the effects of working out, for me. I enjoy both very much now. And will definitely continue to implement meditation and loving kindness exercise into my life.

I think that I have been able to really reduce my stress by taking time away from everyone to meditate and practice the loving kindness exercise. My mind is clearer and not full of random, unimportant stresses like it use to be before this class. If I begin to feel myself getting super stressed, especially with both children home, since school is over, I make everyone do "quiet time" in their rooms. It has truly helped me feel less bogged down and less stressed. I need this time for myself to help me unwind, so I can be the happy, cheery mother that I want to be. So I will definitely continue to practice both exercises even after this class is completed.

Thanks for reading!
~ Kristin Croake