Preconceptions

 We all have so many preconceptions about so many things.

Have you ever stopped to wonder where they come from? And if they are blocking you from a fuller experience of life or trying new things, expanding your horizons?

Think about meditation...many have preconceived ideas of what meditation is and isn't and how it should go, however meditation is merely the slowing down and stillness of the mind, so that you can find your center and have some clarity. And because of these preconceptions many never get to try or experience the tremendous health benefits from meditation.

You can meditate by walking through the woods and listening to the birds and the wind rustling through the leaves whilst feeling the warmth of the sun on your body. You can meditate while watching the ocean and listening to the waves and seagulls. 

Lying on your back looking at the clouds as they play in the sky can be a form of meditation, as long as you are present and still. clearing your mind and listening and watching what is right there with you.

And then there is the structured types of meditations too.

But,

This is not a discussion on meditation, it's a discussion about our preconceptions. Our beliefs and thought about things and people and places that cause us to miss the gifts of life, to miss the full experience.

We may stop ourselves from expressing our creativity because we perceive our abilities as not being capable enough or we have a preconception that it is silly or does not fit into a certain image.

I can't sing well, so I am never going to do it even though singing along with my favorite song makes me feel good. I am not going to enjoy drawing because I am not good at it. Phrases like "sing as if no-one is listening and dance like no-one is watching" draws on the fact that we don't do these small, fun things because we have preconceptions or lies/thoughts/beliefs about ourselves regarding these actions that rob us of the joy that comes from doing without worrying how we look or what others think of us.

These are small examples of how our preconceptions/beliefs stop us from doing what may ultimately enhance our being and connect us to our true selves.

I am fat, ugly, not good enough, smart enough, strong enough etc. These are the lies we perpetuate to ourselves (our preconceptions) causing so much turmoil and pain throughout our lives and relationships and ultimately how we view and treat everyone and everything in our world. Our wounds cause us to wound others. And we wound ourselves by perpetuating these lies and thoughts towards ourselves.

When we don't love ourselves and look at all the thoughts and beliefs we carry, we fail to change, to grow and create healthier lives and a healthier world and planet for all.