Michelle
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I enjoyed this module and particularly the idea of setting an alarm or trigger to remind us to remain mindful and in FSA. I had a holistic counselor once who had me practice something similar. She gave me a long, thin rope to carry with me and each time I would succumb to anxiety or revert to old habits I was working through, she would have me tie a knot in the rope. This represented the disruption of progress and positive energy I was working on. It was difficult and also quite revealing in what triggered the knots and how often, during what circumstances. Ultimately, and with time, this practice helped me carry a full length of rope with no knots, illustrating positive flow. The use of alarms during the movement and triggers segment reminded me of the rope therapy.
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Enjoyed another exercise centered around being present and tuning into feeling prior to acting. I noticed that when operating in FSA, I felt an even stronger connection to nature. Fully immersed, more appreciative of myself and surroundings. Of course, life matters and issues do not disappear, but this practice helps them fade away while a reset occurs, allowing me to contemplate in a more relaxed and unencumbered way, thus developing clarity.
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FSA reminds me of the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku. I have studied it and know of it, but have never completed a forest bathing session. I am looking forward to doing that this year and utilizing this FSA practice seems like it will compliment the experience. As with all of these modules, the waiting and anticipating is always very enjoyable to me.
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The concept of awaiting and anticipation were two of my favorite points of this module and also of Surround Sound. In a world where we are often (negatively) reactionary, these practices encourage the beauty and grace of waiting, looking forward, and curiosity. It seems so healthy and natural to get back to these basics of life and embrace wonderment and awe. It is enlightening.
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This was a great exercise to begin the class. It reminded me so much of zazen meditation and helped pull me into a mindful state, concentrating not only on the surround sounds, but to my inner breathing as well. It is a very peaceful state. It has always amazed me the way silence can speak volumes. Engaging in this practice at different times of the day was also quite helpful; often brining me back to a mindful state that is sometimes challenging during the hustle and bustle of daily life.
I recently took a class called Can You Escape the Matrix? The course was dedicated to learning about technology overuse and dependency, and how returning to nature helps us restore, as well as provide multiple physiological benefits. Since then, I have dedicated myself to advocating for digital detachment periods and reconnection to nature to restore personal wellbeing. This first step into nature-connectedness is profound, and continually reminds me why I have begun this mission.