Unit 8

For the majority of the exercises I struggled to make it through them, but there were two that still stick out in my mind as the clear winners for me. They were the only two I could truly feel like I had some sense of calm, focus and was able to reach a meditative state. The first one was back in Unit 2, The Journey on Relaxation exercise, and I was able to reach a calmer state because the man's voice and the background sounds were so soothing, but also because the exercise focused on breathing and the body. I can easily identify with the body and I immediately associate slow breathing with relaxation. The other exercise I can't seem to find the name of it, but it had oceanic sounds and also focused on breathing. I remember not being able to connect with it as much as the Unit 2 exercise, but it was the only other one where I felt I could maintain the goal and focus. I honestly struggled with the rest and found it difficult to reach a sense of connection. I have mentioned many times that for me the spiritual aspects come forefront the most when I am in nature and outdoors doing the many activities that I love. I just got back from a trip exploring different parts of Southern Alaska and Vancouver, Canada. I was able to rock climb in Skagway, Alaska, hike through rain forests, waterfalls, and glaciers in Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, ride bicycles through Stanley park in Vancouver, Canada and all the while I was observing amazing wildlife and scenery. I saw oral whales, humpback whales, dolphins, bald eagles, bears, puffins, mountain goats, etc. The glaciers, mountains, ocean and trees in my daily view were just utterly breathing taking and overwhelmingly beautiful. I plan to integrate more of the outdoor activities that I love so much to help me reach a sense of connection and peace. On a smaller scale I want to continue kayaking more regularly and hiking because those activities are readily available to me so they are easier to achieve.