Everything Originates from the Mind
You are the center of the mandala.
Throughout history, wisdom traditions have recognized the interconnectedness of all phenomena.
It has been echoed:
"Thoughts lead to words, words lead to actions, actions lead to habits, habits lead to character, and character leads to destiny."
—Chinese Proverb
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As we regularly practice the skill of mindfulness, we gradually become aware of the delicate interplay between the thoughts in the mind, the emotions that we experience in the body, postures and characteristics of the body, and general patterns of lifestyle:
Every thought that we have, whether made consciously or not, cues a cascade of neurological and hormonal reactions in our body…
these chemical reactions are felt as bodily sensations and emotions…
these emotions eventually manifest as facial features and physical postures.
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This physiologic chain basically encapsulates the Buddhist idea of karma, translating to “action.” As the age-old saying goes: as we sow, so shall we reap — every action that we take leaves an imprint on our mind and body.
We furthermore begin to see that our surrounding environment is essentially an extension of our own body. The inner qualities that we cultivate resonate outwardly and have profound impact on the world around us. In fact, we are truly part of a beautifully intricate ecosystem of cause and effect.
With this understanding, we begin to approach mental and spiritual health with a deeper sense of sincerity, recognizing that our thoughts ultimately shape the world before us.
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The key to a life of peace and harmony, then, according to these wisdom traditions, is to become increasingly mindful of our thoughts and actions.
Perhaps this is best said by Austrian Psychiatrist Viktor Frankl:
"Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom."
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Through the dedicated practice of mindfulness, we become attuned to this space Frankl describes, increasing our sense of free will. No longer bound by reactionary impulses, we become free to choose our responses with grace, encouraging peace and compassion in the lives of all.
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May you craft yourself to be a pillar of peace for yourself, and all those around you.
Max Kristopher Komes
www.MaxKomes.com
Max Komes is a Masters-level Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern offering supervised in-person counseling services in Pensacola, Florida, as well as statewide.
This writing is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you have imminent health concerns, please call 1-800-NAMI.
