Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Writing Practice




Following the routine of a writing practice assists to shape thoughts, feelings, and adjust behaviors in all aspects of our lives.  After a period of time and word enthusiasm, we learn about ourselves and how to excavate ways into challenges with words.  This takes advantage of the brain's ability to form new habits. 

Scientists used to believe that after childhood development, the brain remained fixed. Nothing replaced brain cells as they aged o
r became damaged by substances.  


Now we know from PET and MRI technology, that the brain can add neurons as a result of our activities.  

It can reshape itself throughout life.  As we increase an activity, the more connections the neurons discover. The wiring strengthens.

Yogis have experienced this neuroplasticity in their practices. In the Yoga Sutra, Patanjali explains how steady practice without interruption builds habits over long periods of time.  Even though the way to remove bad habits by replacing them with good ones sounds too easy, the discipline of writing works to enable neural links.

As writing practice increases over time, it becomes a new habit that competes with old ways of thinking, doing, and problem solving. It systematically energizes the ability to feel what's happening in mind, body and emotions. When writing probes into the psyche, it guides many areas of life.  


Writing with the senses, we become involved with awareness and even taste food in a different way.  Touch, scents, and hearing heighten along with sight and perception.  We learn what provides a thrill and what it takes to remove angst and frustration as we write from mood to mood.












If we reach for a pen when frustrations or other emotions set in, we will return to that habit rather than worry. 



Writing just 15 minutes a day will energize the brain into new wiring. 
Focus on a writing meditation today. Begin with a concern and write until it deepens your awareness or another idea emerges.

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