something I am grateful for today

[johncomic]

Learning something about the practice of mindfulness.

Speaking extremely loosely, mindfulness is related to meditation in some ways, and is basically a good thing to do for yourself. One form of mindfulness practice relates to focusing on one activity -- breathing is often used as the point of focus. With the idea being to focus your awareness on the task at hand of breathing, dismissing other thoughts as they arise, and being in the moment. I have taken a couple of courses about this, and when I remember to stop and do it, I find it beneficial.

My point today is that I have suddenly consciously realized: when I am drawing comics, I am automatically practising mindfulness without effort. While I draw, I am singularly focused on the work, my mind never wanders elsewhere, and I am completely in the moment. This might explain why I feel somehow elevated while and after I work on my pages. It's still a bit of a surprise to realize that this can be so simple.

Comments

[abbeyrd.livejournal.com]

Ha! This was the topic of my anxiety workshop this week. Great minds think alike.

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

Most certainly true for the two of us! :P

[jasonturner.livejournal.com]

When I am really "on" and drawing I am completely in the mindful zone. This is something I also get towards in the hatch-y line-y drawings I have been doing lately. Just getting into the hatchy rhythm.

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

I find it hard to imagine not getting into the zone when immersed in that kind of work, yeah...