Treating the Mind as a Temple
Treating our mind as a temple means being mindful of what we invite into our psyches. Just as we care for our body by eating healthy foods, we can nurture our mind by being conscious of what we ingest psychically. This includes the conversations we have, the books we read, the media we watch, and any other content that enters our mind-space.
Today, I want to focus on the impact of psychic ingesting via screens. News programs, TV shows, or movies that feature violent or upsetting content can actually be traumatic. Often, the trauma is so subtle that we don’t even notice it. A single image can flash across the screen, and before we consciously register it, we may already have had a traumatic reaction.
The Blurred Line Between Reality and Fiction
In this age of Netflix, fake news, and constant uncertainty, the line between fantasy and reality has become increasingly blurred. The unconscious mind, or primary process, does not differentiate between what is real and what is fiction. It cannot distinguish between what has been imagined or watched and what has actually been experienced.
When we watch traumatic scenes or distressing concepts through a screen, our unconscious mind processes it as though we ourselves have experienced it. We may not consciously notice the trauma, but it still affects us. One way to recognise this is by observing our dreams. Have you ever watched a disturbing TV show or spent hours consuming the news, only to dream about it later? This may be your psyche’s way of attempting to process the trauma it has absorbed.
Unfortunately, this uses up valuable mental energy, diverting our psychic resources toward unnecessary trauma processing instead of meaningful insights or self-development.
The Role of Screens in Our Lives
During times of social distancing, screens have become even more central to how we connect with others and stay informed. We are evolving alongside these tools, and while they offer many benefits, it is crucial to be mindful of what we consume through them.
Becoming aware of how screens affect us allows us to make more informed choices about the content we allow into our psychic space. As Bob Dylan once said, “Your mind is your temple, keep it beautiful and free.” Guarding your mind is your responsibility, and treating it as a temple is a powerful way to nurture your overall well-being.
Practical Steps for Mindful Consumption
Notice your emotional responses: Pay attention to how you feel during and after consuming content. If something leaves you feeling anxious, drained, or distressed, consider limiting your exposure.
Observe your dreams: Reflect on whether certain media experiences are influencing your subconscious mind. This may signal the need to adjust your media habits.
Set boundaries: Create screen-free times or spaces, especially before bed, to give your mind time to reset.
Choose consciously: Opt for uplifting, inspiring, or neutral content that aligns with your values and well-being.
By treating your mind as a temple, you can make space for peace, clarity, and growth in a world that is increasingly noisy and overwhelming.
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