I’m currently working through an amazing book by Deepak Chopra on how people can essentially reincarnate in real time by making small adjustments to their thinking and being. It’s something I’ve believed is completely possible (see previous blog: My Theory on Reincarnation) but it was great to actually read it from someone else!
Change is difficult. The body fights for stasis, whether or not it’s bad or good. By humming along at the status quo, people don’t achieve what they aspire to. Just know that you can take small steps and change your thinking to achieve this.
Here’s a great snippet on the connection between mental activity and ability:
The researchers were elated with their findings, because this was the first time anyone had shown that mental activity alone can alter the brain. It was already known that the brain could be trained in its physical performance — athletes, for example, get better the more they practice. We praise them for having talent, will, and courage. All of that may be true. But, to a neurologist, the greatest runners, swimmers, and tennis players have highly trained their motor cortex, which is responsible for coordinating the complicated movements needed in any difficult sport. Now it could be shown that the mere whip of desire — in this case, the desire to be compassionate — trains the brain to adapt in the same way.
Early in the book, Deepak discusses that the nonphysical aspect of life is stronger than the physical. “Once you stop clinging to the idea that your body is a thing, you realize what should have been obvious: your body is the junction between the visible and invisible worlds.” The way to affect change is to take subtle actions. He lists five ways for people to make this happen:
- You go inside and make your intention known.
i.e. I’m going to swim/bike/run the LA Triathlon…and survive. - You believe in getting results.
i.e. I will make a tri training schedule and hold myself accountable. - You don’t resist the process of change.
i.e. Everyone in my life gets annoyed that I can’t hang out as much because I train in my spare time. I deal with it. - Your body shifts effortlessly at the physical level.
i.e. My sleep regulates itself. I have more energy and am overall more cognizant and alert of my physical being. - You repeat your subtle action until you have mastered the change you desire.
i.e. D-Day (well, I suppose it’s really T-Day) is only 72 days away!
By quietly encouraging the change you really want, you are able to achieve it.
How are you trying to change your life with subtle action? Is it working?
Amara in Training 