I've been pondering lately about whether I should ease up on listening to my own thoughts. It's a common belief that constantly engaging our minds is beneficial, but I've come to realize it might be doing more harm than good to my happiness.
Digging into some research, I discovered an intriguing fact about the development of our organs. While both the heart and brain start forming in the womb around the same time (3 to 4 weeks), the heart becomes fully functional within a few more weeks, whereas the brain takes about 5 to 6 years after birth to reach its full functionality and continues refining itself over time.
Think about a baby's journey. It takes months for them to recognize people and things, even longer to grasp their own independence. As toddlers, they start flexing their mental muscles by asking questions and demanding things. Through trial and error, they figure out what works and what doesn't, gradually shaping their understanding of themselves. It's crucial to note that this awareness of self isn't innate but developed over time.
So, why do we consider ourselves as a single entity rather than a collection of independent parts? It's an interesting philosophical question, especially considering that over 97% of our bodies are made up of independently existing microorganisms. Yet, we readily identify ourselves as whole beings while acknowledging the individuality of other organisms. Food for thought, indeed.
As humans, we share fundamental functions with other animals, both involuntary (like managing bodily systems) and voluntary (such as securing food and shelter). Our brains, however, take it a step further by enabling us to plan ahead, a capability that sets us apart from our animal counterparts. But here's where things get tricky.
Our brains, fueled by an abundance of energy through all that fat stored in the brain, are constantly active. They love to work, much like a monkey swinging from branch to branch. We're always dreaming, setting goals, and refining our self-image based on affirmations and experiences. And it doesn't stop there. We create images of others, comparing them to our self-created ideals and often sparking unnecessary conflicts and stress in the process.
But is this hyperactivity of the mind truly necessary? Shouldn't our powerful brains be focused just on essential tasks like ensuring our survival and well-being? Instead, we find ourselves tangled in a web of needless thoughts and conflicts, draining our energy and peace of mind.
So, how can we silence this incessant chatter of the mind? It's easier said than done, but awareness is the first step. By paying full attention to our actions and surroundings, we can quiet the mind and conserve precious energy. Whether it's shaving, chopping fruits, or simply observing our environment, being fully present in the moment can bring about a sense of calm and efficiency.
By taming our monkey minds, we can redirect our energy towards what truly matters, fostering a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. So let's stop listening to the unnecessary noise within and start embracing the silence of the present moment.
Benefit of doing all this could save me a lot of energy. The saved energy combined with the silent mind waiting to do something, will help me become efficient, when there is an actual need.
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