How Mindfulness Empowers Us: An Animation Narrated by Sharon Salzberg

Recent questions

• What is the significance of the Native American story about the two wolves?

  The Native American story about the two wolves fighting in an elder's heart symbolizes the internal struggle between positive and negative traits within individuals. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on nurturing positive qualities rather than battling negative ones. By choosing to feed the wolf representing positive traits, individuals can strengthen these aspects of themselves and let go of negativity. This story serves as a reminder of the power of mindfulness in recognizing and choosing our thoughts and feelings, guiding us to make conscious choices and break free from old patterns through practice.

• How does mindfulness help in recognizing thoughts and feelings?

  Mindfulness enables individuals to be aware of their emotions and thoughts in the present moment. By practicing mindfulness, individuals can cultivate a heightened sense of self-awareness, allowing them to recognize and acknowledge their thoughts and feelings without judgment. This awareness empowers individuals to make conscious choices about how to respond to their emotions and thoughts, rather than reacting impulsively. Through mindfulness, individuals can develop the ability to observe their internal experiences with clarity and compassion, leading to greater emotional regulation and well-being.

• What does the story teach about the power of choice?

  The story of the two wolves teaches that individuals have the power to choose which aspects of themselves they nurture and feed. By choosing to focus on positive qualities and thoughts, individuals can strengthen these aspects of themselves and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. This emphasizes the importance of making conscious choices about where to direct one's attention and energy, as these choices can have a significant impact on one's well-being and overall mindset. The story serves as a reminder that individuals have agency in deciding which thoughts and feelings to cultivate and prioritize in their lives.

• How can individuals break free from old patterns through mindfulness?

  Through the practice of mindfulness, individuals can break free from old patterns by developing a greater awareness of their thoughts and behaviors. By cultivating mindfulness, individuals can observe their habitual patterns and reactions with curiosity and non-judgment, allowing them to recognize when they are engaging in unhelpful behaviors or thought patterns. This awareness provides individuals with the opportunity to make conscious choices about how to respond differently in similar situations, ultimately breaking free from ingrained patterns and creating space for new, more adaptive ways of thinking and behaving.

• What is the key takeaway from the Native American story about the two wolves?

  The key takeaway from the Native American story about the two wolves is the importance of nurturing positive qualities and thoughts within oneself. By choosing to feed the wolf representing positive traits, individuals can strengthen these aspects of themselves and let go of negativity. This story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of our choices on our well-being and mindset, highlighting the transformative power of mindfulness in recognizing and choosing our thoughts and feelings. Ultimately, the story emphasizes the agency individuals have in shaping their internal landscape and guiding themselves through life's experiences.