Okay, let's get clear on a couple of details, then.
A feeling is a body sensation and comes after a thought. A feeling can't choose.
That's backwards. Sensation comes first. Then thought arises. Don't believe me. Check. That's what the fMRI proves.
Situations like this make me feel i have the choice.
Yes, that's the illusion it creates.
Don't worry - I'm not suggesting that you need to look at every decision this way. You just need to know that that is really what's happening.
On the other hand, it can be very peaceful when we get into the flow of noticing that we have no control. It's a kind of surrender or letting go.
That same sense of surrender, letting go & relaxation can help you to see there's no "self." Thinking, stressing & trying to force it do not work.
Sports Exercise
Please note that you will have to check the link when using this exercise, to make sure it is still viable, as sometimes they are removed from Youtube.
The following link is a 7 minute clip of a soccer game. If you prefer another sport…please feel free to find one to do this exercise with.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy5pL-myDzw
1. Watch one minute with the sound turned OFF, watching ‘people’ messing about with a round thing on a field, up and down, up and down. Let it sink in, the whole experience.
2. Once the first minute is completed, now watch another whole minute with the commentary turned ON.
Notice the differences.
Notice how the commentator (thought) offers lots of know-how, even advice. It seems to feel as though they can influence, somehow, what is going on, as though one outcome is much preferred to the opposite outcome. The commentary may seem to heighten any supporter feelings which are there, and call for an identification with one team or other, and with the importance of the game itself.
3. Now turn the volume OFF AGAIN and just watch the action with NO audible commentary, the shapes moving around on the screen etc. Again notice all the differences in what is appearing as experience.
4. Now turn the volume ON again and ignore what you think you know thought is talking about, and just notice it as sound.
What did you find when doing this exercise? Is the commentary on the soccer game a necessity for the play to happen?
And in the same way, is the inner narration of thought a necessity for the play of life to happen?
As always, relax & have fun!
Loving,
