Today we went to our little Farmers Market and ran some errands. I was practicing a Zen Buddhist technique I read about a long time ago called “Beginner's Mind.” It’s just as it sounds. You approach an experience like it’s the first time you’ve ever done it. The point is to keep you grounded in the present moment more and eliminate expectations (which in return should reduce or eliminate any feelings of annoyance, impatience or irritation.)
Today I imagined that we’re away on vacation and going to visit a local farmer’s market that I’ve never been to before. Then I tried my best to see everything like it was the first time. Sure enough! I really enjoyed the experience, even more than I think I would have.
It also didn’t hurt that they finally have blackberries in! Getting a bag of bursting blackberries and eating it then and there while shopping is my favorite thing about the summer market. They are always the best blackberries ever. I could have taken the exercise even further by imagining that I'd never eaten a blackberry before, but I was too greedy.
Another side benefit to "Beginner's Mind" that I noticed is that I was so wrapped up in what was happening in the present moment that it was easier to ignore my physical pain. It was still there and I still noticed it too, but it was a little quieter. This is something I'll try and incorporate more into my day-to-day.
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