I have some reflections on this post that I’d like to share. Instead of reading it all now, I chose to download it to my Kindle, as I’ve been immersing myself in content lately, almost like a snake spirit animal 🐍—devouring information without much discernment. I’ve noticed that this approach isn’t always leading to deeper understanding. I feel that being present as I read would honor both my thought process your original intentions. 🙏
Lately, I’ve been experiencing a bit of overwhelm from the sheer volume of content out there. This has prompted me to consider how I can incorporate mindfulness principles into my routine to help slow down. I like to refer to this as my ‘slow movement’ on Substack—essentially, an inner revolution that I believe requires a certain level of discipline.
Yet, I wonder about the relationship between discipline and mindfulness. For some people, the term “discipline” can have negative connotations. Personally, I resonate with the idea that mindfulness and discipline can complement each other, but I find it triggering to think of discipline as something “I must master!” I envision an instructor demanding compliance—“You will learn to meditate! You will practice mindfulness, or else!” That feels misaligned with how I want to engage with these practices.
I do best when I have the freedom to choose how to incorporate any practice into my life. My healthcare providers have learned that about me — especially my dentist! Meditation is another one of those things — having the flexibility to decide what to do, when to do it, and how. This sense of autonomy feels in contrast to traditional notions of discipline. I feel manner survivors have similar thoughts especially if they grew up in authoritarian households. I’m finding I can embrace flexibility without sacrificing progress. It might be slower — but, I'm okay with that. I believe that if I can find ways to weave mindfulness naturally into the flow of my day, I might better embody this concept.
Thank you for the opportunity to reflect on various aspects of mindfulness. I wish you both all the best with your publications! ☀️
You’re completely right that for many, the word discipline carries a punitive, almost instructive tone. I was one of those people too.
But discipline is a human construct, and like any construct, it can be reframed. Historically it’s shifted from its root in discere (to learn), into a badge of honor for obsession and success through suffering.
What I try to share in my publication is that there can be another way. A way rooted in self-compassion, self-awareness, and learning, about ourselves and what surrounds us.
If you feel this resonates with your ideas, I’d love to invite you to check it out.
I have some reflections on this post that I’d like to share. Instead of reading it all now, I chose to download it to my Kindle, as I’ve been immersing myself in content lately, almost like a snake spirit animal 🐍—devouring information without much discernment. I’ve noticed that this approach isn’t always leading to deeper understanding. I feel that being present as I read would honor both my thought process your original intentions. 🙏
Lately, I’ve been experiencing a bit of overwhelm from the sheer volume of content out there. This has prompted me to consider how I can incorporate mindfulness principles into my routine to help slow down. I like to refer to this as my ‘slow movement’ on Substack—essentially, an inner revolution that I believe requires a certain level of discipline.
Yet, I wonder about the relationship between discipline and mindfulness. For some people, the term “discipline” can have negative connotations. Personally, I resonate with the idea that mindfulness and discipline can complement each other, but I find it triggering to think of discipline as something “I must master!” I envision an instructor demanding compliance—“You will learn to meditate! You will practice mindfulness, or else!” That feels misaligned with how I want to engage with these practices.
I do best when I have the freedom to choose how to incorporate any practice into my life. My healthcare providers have learned that about me — especially my dentist! Meditation is another one of those things — having the flexibility to decide what to do, when to do it, and how. This sense of autonomy feels in contrast to traditional notions of discipline. I feel manner survivors have similar thoughts especially if they grew up in authoritarian households. I’m finding I can embrace flexibility without sacrificing progress. It might be slower — but, I'm okay with that. I believe that if I can find ways to weave mindfulness naturally into the flow of my day, I might better embody this concept.
Thank you for the opportunity to reflect on various aspects of mindfulness. I wish you both all the best with your publications! ☀️
Hi Anna,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful reflection.
You’re completely right that for many, the word discipline carries a punitive, almost instructive tone. I was one of those people too.
But discipline is a human construct, and like any construct, it can be reframed. Historically it’s shifted from its root in discere (to learn), into a badge of honor for obsession and success through suffering.
What I try to share in my publication is that there can be another way. A way rooted in self-compassion, self-awareness, and learning, about ourselves and what surrounds us.
If you feel this resonates with your ideas, I’d love to invite you to check it out.
Best,
Camilo