What is mindful consumption?
One definition of consumption is the action or process of receiving information. Mindful consumption is being fully present in the action or process of receiving information with Buddha like compassion.
In this day and age the word consumption fits many unattractive images. We see it in big business and governments. The general population consumes a great deal of resources daily, produces tons of garbage from packaging and so on. That is a worthy topic of its own. However the focus for today’s writing is of the mind. How many people are aware of what the mind consumes?
Mindless Consumption:
Unfortunately the mind is also consuming tons of garbage. Much of it reaches into the minds of Man unfiltered. They are unaware and unconscious of the information and its effects. This does not stop the consumption of information from reaching deep into the subconscious mind. However, we are still responsible because it happens through the choices we make.
A Simple Example :
A person is working on a project for his or her company with a radio talk show as background filler. The radio host is aggressive and very opinionated. The person working isn’t paying much attention to it but the vibration reaches out and surrounds the work area and the individual. Eventually the person begins to feel fatigued, agitated, distracted and doesn’t really know why.
Here is Why:
The vibration in the delivery and the content is finding its way into the energy field of the person who is focused on something else but nonetheless receptive to and effected by the radio talk show host and his energy. The choice he has made to have the radio on allows his mind to consume vast amounts of toxic and fairly useless information in a mindless rather than mindful fashion. Other potentially toxic ways the mind consumes information is through commercials, news and television programs, gossip and angry or demeaning conversations, some movies and books. Consciously chose what your mind consumes.
Wake up To The Power Of Choice:
In the process of waking up to “mindful consumption” make room for your own thoughts. In this way you can become aware of the nature of your own thoughts. If you recognize your own thoughts as toxic you can now consciously begin the practice of changing them. Recognition always precedes conscious change. Make healthy choices.
Mindful Consumption:
Allow the mind to relax and clear itself during the day. Become mindful of your environment. Step out into nature if only in your back yard or the local park. Work in silence or consciously chose something pleasant and soothing to occupy your space.
You as an individual make a difference. What you think and feel has an effect on the whole of life. Let us come together and practice “mindful consumption” creating in roads of thought that have a positive effect on the restoration of your self, your health, humanity and the world. Here are 6 mindful trainings you could enter into your daily life. Please consider them:
Mindful Consumption Training:
1- Cherish all life on earth
2- Pledge to practice generosity
3- Make a commitment to behave responsibly in all relationships
4- Practice loving speech
5- Practice mindful consumption and mindful eating
6- Never underestimate kindness
Open and Free your Mind:
In order for one to have mental space or awareness enough to practice these simple yet potent Buddha like thought forms one must have a mind free from clutter, free from the unnecessary consumption of detrimental, debilitating and useless information.
Remember Your Divinity:
You are valuable and important. See the value of taking time for yourself and your family, your body and your peace of mind. Energy of mindfulness, concentration, insight will bring about compassion, love, joy, togetherness and non-discrimination.
Meditation, as a food, opens the opportunity to see the entire universe supporting our existence.
Mindfulness:
Faith, determination, awakening and a big dream of peace can change the course of ones life. Dream the dream of brotherhood and sisterhood of loving kindness and compassion. We can make that dream a reality right here right now. Be true to your own divinity by becoming responsible and mindful of what your mind consumes.
Mindfulness is at the heart of awakening.
Mindfulness is at the heart of enlightenment.
Lighten up just a little more. 🙂
love Astara
