Each course is built upon a series of lessons
that consist of objectives, reading assignments and self-help questions. These
questions provide an opportunity for the student to review the material
and to consider how the contents may apply to his or her own life. Answers
are provided. Following
is one of the lessons from NH 421 The Meaning of Health.
Lesson 2
Lesson 2 presents the lucid presence of mind needed
to notice what is happening in the present moment. This state is called mindfulness
and is described by the authors as the gateway to mind-body-spirit harmony
and balance. After
successfully completing this lesson you should be able to:
- explain the miracles of mindfulness;
- explain what it means to become fully awake to the present
moment;
- explain the importance of mindful breathing;
- define the wheel of mindfulness;
- discuss the effects of nutrition, stress and exercise on balance;
and
- explain the importance of sleep.
Assignment
For Lesson 2, you will read Chapters 4-5 (p.47-104)
of Living in Balance. Complete your reading assignments in two sections,
as outlined below.
Section I. Begin by reading pages 47 through 69. Then,
without referring to the book, answer the following questions. They are for
your use only. Do not submit them to the college for grading. You
may check your answers with the key provided at the end of the lesson.
- The presence of mind that enables you to tune in to the moment is
commonly referred to as ___________________.
- True or False: The value of mindfulness is a theme that is uniquely
attributed to Eastern wisdom traditions.
- True or False: Increasing mindfulness is an essential tool for
living, learning and working in balance.
- True or False: The essence of mindfulness is to put aside thoughts
of what you want and concentrate on what you are sensing and feeling at
the given moment.
- Thought Question: According to the researchers cited in the
text, what percentage of our thoughts are new or different thoughts than
we have had previously? How might you change your thinking habits to increase
balance in your life?
Section II. Read pages 70 through 104 in the text and
answer the following questions. Again, this is for your use only. Please
do not send self-help material to the college for grading.
- _____________ implies an integration of soul, heart, mind and
body.
- According to health statistics, nearly 90 percent of all disease
is linked to ________________________________.
- True or False: Your target heart zone for aerobic exercise is between
80 and 90 percent of your maximal heart rate.
- True or False: At times when your energy is naturally slumping,
reviving yourself with caffeine is a good way to naturally elevate your
energy and alertness until your own energy balancing mechanisms activate.
- Thought Question: What are the nutritional factors that enable
your body to maintain the adequate energy to ward off stress?