Comments on: Super-Aging Part II: Is there an optimal mindset (and higher purpose) for swimming faster?

By: Steven Winiarski

Steven Winiarski — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 13:32:00 +0000

Hi Kim,
I don’t know if this will answer your questions but your comments have reminded me of a discussion I was having with my long time Pilates instructor. I commented to her as we were discussing the finer points of one exercise that how one approaches the exercises is really a reflection of how one approaches activities in life in general. She agreed and added that she sees clients that are high strung or anxious approach the their practice in the same way. Those who are focuses on some extrinsic goal, e.g. Getting a work out or, in our discussion, achieving a faster 100 yards, do not focus on the steps needed whose byproduct would be the goal. The alternative is true, by focusing the mind on mastery in one endevour one can affect how one approaches all endeavors and, ultimately, life.
In Total Immersion, by focusing on mastery in body position, hand entry, balance, etc the extrinsic goal of a faster time will come as a byproduct. In the example of Zen, do you meditate to reach enlightenment or do you reach enlightenment by mastering meditation?
Just some thoughts,

Steven

By: Kim Allison

Kim Allison — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 04:15:00 +0000

How does Budda, practicing Zen and meditating help me swim better? Do I meditate when I am swimming, before I swim or after I swim? Do we use the Soto school of Zen or will any approach work?

By: Vojto

Vojto — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 08:12:00 +0000

Dear Terry, Dear Master!
I have read several of your articles not only because of my swimming but mainly due to their higher value for my life. I recognize them as invaluable helpers to see our lives and purpose on the Earth in a wider context and catalysts for further development of my intrinsic values and enlightenment. I am not exaggerating as a number of your approaches (that fairly correspond with some Buddhist perspectives) I have been applying in other areas of my life and spreading them to my surroundings. You can believe me that it is eye-opening for several friends of mine (although not all of them are enthusiastic swimmers), too. This is my sincere thank to you for stimulating hope and boosting encouragement and also helping us to be better and more enlightened people what makes the world different. You have my promise that I will do my best to spread those invaluable approaches and attitudes.
Warmest regards,
Vojto

By: Sean Tseng

Sean Tseng — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 05:45:00 +0000

Very thoughtful. Thanks.

By: Cathy Taber Fisher

Cathy Taber Fisher — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 22:36:00 +0000

Thank you , Terry! Your blogs keep me motivated and provide purpose to my pool time.