Mindfulness in Action: Deborah Schoeberlein David's Practical Wisdom
The way that we try to feed the good wolf...is sometimes to work with things that are not, on the surface, so obviously good or pleasant.
Ever wondered how to weave mindfulness into the fabric of your everyday life? In this episode of 'The One You Feed', host Eric Zimmer chats with Deborah Schoeberlein David, a teacher and curriculum developer who’s passionate about making mindfulness accessible. Deborah’s latest book, 'Living Mindfully: At Home, At Work and in the World', serves as the backdrop for a conversation filled with practical advice and real-life applications.
Deborah kicks things off by revisiting the well-known parable of the two wolves, a central theme of the podcast. She explains how this simple story can help us navigate the complexities of our inner lives. It’s not just about being kind or brave; sometimes, what looks like kindness might actually be harmful, and anger might be the fuel for positive change. The trick is to use mindfulness to discern and act wisely.
One of Deborah’s key points is that mindfulness shouldn’t be an extra task on your to-do list. Instead, it should be woven into what you’re already doing. Whether you're washing dishes, walking the dog, or even during intimate moments, mindfulness can be seamlessly integrated. It’s about being present and aware, not just going through the motions. Deborah also talks about the importance of presence and discernment. It’s crucial to accurately perceive what’s happening around you and respond constructively.
She warns against using mindfulness as a justification for behaviors or as a tool for self-criticism. Instead, it should be a way to genuinely connect with your experiences. Another fascinating part of the discussion is about the dangers of mindlessness. Deborah emphasizes that being too hungry, angry, lonely, or tired can make you more susceptible to relapse and other negative behaviors. Mindfulness helps you catch these states early and address them before they spiral out of control.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and practical tips for anyone looking to incorporate mindfulness into their daily routine. Whether you're new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your practice, Deborah’s wisdom offers something valuable for everyone.