The word discipline in its most general sense refers to systematic instruction given to a disciple. The Latin root disciplina "instruction", from the root discere "to learn," The origin is the master giving instructions to the disciple. Further elaborating the disciple follows instructions eventually creating a habit around the instructions. The disciple has created a discipline through repetition.
I will often hear people say that they don’t have the discipline to exercise or practice yoga frequently enough—this often bums me out. I see that it is something that bothers them enough that they verbalize it to me. If they are speaking outwardly it is probably a thought that dominates their mind throughout the day—a thought which probably brings a fair about of self loathing and suffering into their life—a real confidence crusher.
The science of neuroplasticity refers to the malleable nature of our brains and minds. Neuroplasticity (variously referred to brain re-mapping) refers to the changes that occur in the organization of the brain as a result of our experience. Decades ago neuroscientists thought the brain was relatively fixed around age two. We now know the brain can change and rewire up into old age. Wiring in the brain can also disappear if we no longer think a certain thought. We have the ability to prune our brain like we would the weeds in our garden.
When you begin to understand this science it is the beginning of true freedom within your life. You realize the way you think is nothing more then programming. The programming happens by the way you think, speak and act. Your direct experience is what is continually wiring your brain. For instance you start to notice the same thoughts that create excuses why you can’t exercise. You see the thought for what it is—just a thought. Next blog I will address working with thought.
3 comments:
Hello, Johnny.
This is a profound point. Through the ideas of personal freedom and self-determination that have gained prominence in recent decades we've lost touch with the very positive benefits of discipline and focus.
The reason that meditative physical exercise has been practised through so many cultures for thousands of years is because it works!
I'm also interested in how these concepts apply to mental exercise. You mention neuroplasticity -- a field that has changed the way we think about the brain.
I run a company that publishes brain fitness software. Our primary product uses a training protocol that demands attention (i.e., you can't do it on auto-pilot) and requires dedicated effort (30 minutes per day) over a period of around 20 days. The result is an increase in fluid intelligence (raw problem-solving ability) of more than 40%.
As I've worked with this training myself and with my customers I've realized that the key ingredient for success is the discipline to stay focused.
Mind Sparke Brain Fitness Pro
Best wishes,
Martin Walker
mind evolve, llc
www.mindsparke.com
I have found in my practice that the more regularly I practice, the easier it is to practice regularly. This is because it has become part of my day (and week), and so I am not constantly making the "should I go to yoga" descision because it is made for me - (if it is Monday, I practice yoga etc.). I am less caught up in my own stories for why I should or should not practice. I am not sure if this is Discipline or simply habit, but it is at least a good habit, and perhaps true discipline will follow. namaste Jacqueline Hannaford.
Jacqueline thanks for writing. A discipline is a habit. Websters says a habit is an acquired behavior pattern regularly followed until it has become almost involuntary. Websters says discipline is activity, exercise, or a regimen that develops or improves a skill. Similar meanings--you are a dedicated yogini and you have both! Nama.
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