This week I want to introduce you to a practice called mind priming. It’s my creation and sort of like pre-meditation. Here’s the idea. When you wake up, take ninety seconds to become aware of where your mind is. Sit on the edge of your bed with your eyes closed and notice your initial thoughts. Are they helpful, and do they have a flavor or patina?
If you are like many people, you might find them to be something like:
Ugh, it’s early
I don’t want to work today
Why did I stay up so late?
While any of that could be true, none of it is a mentally fit way to start things. And often, these thoughts are laced with emotions like worry and regret. If this is where you find yourself, start trying to replace them with something more useful. I call this mind priming because it’s like the base layer of paint that goes on before the actual color you’ve chosen. Its neutral tone helps you do less work later and improves the final tint.
Try repeating the practice throughout the day as you transition from one activity to the next. Check in with your mind. This can be quick; you don’t have to set a timer. At a minimum, do the morning routine in reverse right before sleep. Sit on your bed, close your eyes, and spend a minute and a half observing your mind. If your thoughts aren’t helpful, let them go, replace them with something better, then lie down.
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DISCLAIMER: RARE SENSE content is not medical advice. Nor does it represent the official position or opinions of any other organization or person. If you require diagnosis or treatment for a mental or physical issue or illness, please seek it from a licensed professional.