ActivityPub Viewer

A small tool to view real-world ActivityPub objects as JSON! Enter a URL or username from Mastodon or a similar service below, and we'll send a request with the right Accept header to the server to view the underlying object.

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{ "@context": "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams", "type": "OrderedCollectionPage", "orderedItems": [ { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1266246319939682304", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "My body is a beehive<br /><br />humming from root to crown<br /><br />filled with the nectar of desire<br /><br />its borders laced in sacred geometry.<br /><br />The queen hides her golden wings<br /><br />in clefts no lover can fathom<br /><br />unless, in seeking her ambrosia<br /><br />they risk her sting.<br /><br />What will you do with your pain?<br /><br />Run from it<br /><br />and from the honey you long for<br /><br />in the sweetness of Now?<br /><br />Will you deny the vibrations humming<br /><br />from the base of your spine<br /><br />spiraling up serpentlike<br /><br />to the dome of your skull?<br /><br />Enter the hollow tree<br /><br />and see where that tunnel goes.<br /><br />It promises to hurt like anything<br /><br />It promises the pleasure that brings you<br /><br />back home to this present moment, heart<br /><br />swollen from the sting<br /><br />and a head full of honey.<br /><br />“There are certain holy ones, sisters born gifted with wings: and they dwell under a ridge of Parnassus. These are teachers of divination… From their home they fly now here, now there, feeding on honey-comb and bringing all things to pass. And when they are inspired through eating honey, they are willing to speak truth; but if they be deprived of the gods’ sweet food, then they speak falsely, as they swarm in and out together. These, then, I give you; enquire of them strictly and delight your heart.”", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1266246319939682304", "published": "2021-07-26T04:10:47+00:00", "source": { "content": "My body is a beehive\n\nhumming from root to crown\n\nfilled with the nectar of desire\n\nits borders laced in sacred geometry.\n\nThe queen hides her golden wings\n\nin clefts no lover can fathom\n\nunless, in seeking her ambrosia\n\nthey risk her sting.\n\nWhat will you do with your pain?\n\nRun from it\n\nand from the honey you long for\n\nin the sweetness of Now?\n\nWill you deny the vibrations humming\n\nfrom the base of your spine\n\nspiraling up serpentlike\n\nto the dome of your skull?\n\nEnter the hollow tree\n\nand see where that tunnel goes.\n\nIt promises to hurt like anything\n\nIt promises the pleasure that brings you\n\nback home to this present moment, heart\n\nswollen from the sting\n\nand a head full of honey.\n\n“There are certain holy ones, sisters born gifted with wings: and they dwell under a ridge of Parnassus. These are teachers of divination… From their home they fly now here, now there, feeding on honey-comb and bringing all things to pass. And when they are inspired through eating honey, they are willing to speak truth; but if they be deprived of the gods’ sweet food, then they speak falsely, as they swarm in and out together. These, then, I give you; enquire of them strictly and delight your heart.”", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1266246319939682304/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265579766395076608", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "Thinking about developing a meditation practice or growing your existing one? Do you share your life with a pet or two? How do you fit everyone and everything into your busy life? You can do both at the same time with pet-centered meditation.<br /><br /><br /><br />Pet-centered meditation (I call it Petitating) can enhance your health and your relationship with your cats and help you to develop a mindfulness meditation practice.<br /><br /><br /><br />What is petitating, exactly?<br /><br />Petitating saved my life. Prior to beginning to meditate, I was at death’s door on multiple occasions, with severe bipolar disorder. Fifteen years ago my healthcare providers recommended meditating. I thought it was hogwash until about five years ago, when I finally decided that my life was becoming unbearable and it was time to take my health in my own hands and do something about it.<br /><br /><br /><br />But as I tried to meditate, my two dogs were always at the door, whining and crying and demanding my attention. I finally decided to let them in and pet them while I tried to meditate. I was amazed at how quickly they calmed down and how much easier it was to meditate while focusing on petting them or paying attention to them. “Petitation” was born!<br /><br /><br /><br />I now try to petitate with my animals every day, and my life is so much better. As Marsha Linnehan, one of the best known clinicians and meditation teachers would say, “I have a life worth living.”<br /><br /><br /><br />When we sit quietly with our pet and experience a moment of joy, comfort and peace, we are Petitating. Petitation practices include having your cat sit in your lap and petting her to help stay in the moment with her, focusing on gratitude about having your cat in your life and having that expand out to other beings in your life, sending loving kindness to your cat, and using mantras to help deal with a mischievous cat and avoid unnecessary reactive anger.<br /><br /><br /><br />Here are tips that can help with this powerful practice:<br /><br />In the beginning, pick a time when you and your cat are already somewhat relaxed. This will help build a successful Petitation practice. As you develop your practice, you will find yourself more and more relaxed. You will find yourself relaxed more and more often as you develop your practice. As you gain more experience, it will be easier to Petitate whenever it fits into your schedule.<br /><br /><br /><br />Find a comfortable position for you and your cat—as long as you don’t fall asleep, I recommend being comfortable so meditating is pleasurable and you are more likely to do it.<br /><br /><br /><br />Try to incorporate petitating as a daily habit. Although I can’t always do it, I find starting my day with a short Petitation or meditation and ending with a longer Petitation or meditation works well for me.<br /><br /><br /><br />Start small, only a few minutes at a time. Petitating is just like working out in a gym. You will develop your Petitation muscles with practice.<br /><br /><br /><br />Don’t force it. If you or your cat aren’t in the right space, try again later. Forcing it will only make you and your cat miserable. This doesn’t mean don’t try to stretch yourself a little, just don’t stretch yourself until you break.<br /><br /><br /><br />Make sure that you prioritize petitating. You and your cat are worth it. Petitating can help with physical and emotional health and can help create a better bond with your cat.<br /><br /><br /><br />If you or your cat are having a hard time, don’t let it get you frustrated or stressed. Petitating is often challenging even for people with lots of experience.<br /><br /><br /><br />Incorporate different types of meditations to keep it fresh and build the meditation muscle in different parts of your brain and body. Petitate in the way that is most helpful at the time. Sometimes I am a bit grumpy and need a gratitude meditation with my cat, whereas other times I need to be more centered and my Equanimity Petitation is more helpful. It’s all about training your mind.<br /><br /><br /><br />Finally, let it be fun—meditating/petitating isn’t meant to be a chore! When we Petitate, we get to improve our health, help our pets relax and form a deeper bond with us, and we no longer have to choose between paying attention to our pets and meditating.", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265579766395076608", "published": "2021-07-24T08:02:08+00:00", "source": { "content": "Thinking about developing a meditation practice or growing your existing one? Do you share your life with a pet or two? How do you fit everyone and everything into your busy life? You can do both at the same time with pet-centered meditation.\n\n\n\nPet-centered meditation (I call it Petitating) can enhance your health and your relationship with your cats and help you to develop a mindfulness meditation practice.\n\n\n\nWhat is petitating, exactly?\n\nPetitating saved my life. Prior to beginning to meditate, I was at death’s door on multiple occasions, with severe bipolar disorder. Fifteen years ago my healthcare providers recommended meditating. I thought it was hogwash until about five years ago, when I finally decided that my life was becoming unbearable and it was time to take my health in my own hands and do something about it.\n\n\n\nBut as I tried to meditate, my two dogs were always at the door, whining and crying and demanding my attention. I finally decided to let them in and pet them while I tried to meditate. I was amazed at how quickly they calmed down and how much easier it was to meditate while focusing on petting them or paying attention to them. “Petitation” was born!\n\n\n\nI now try to petitate with my animals every day, and my life is so much better. As Marsha Linnehan, one of the best known clinicians and meditation teachers would say, “I have a life worth living.”\n\n\n\nWhen we sit quietly with our pet and experience a moment of joy, comfort and peace, we are Petitating. Petitation practices include having your cat sit in your lap and petting her to help stay in the moment with her, focusing on gratitude about having your cat in your life and having that expand out to other beings in your life, sending loving kindness to your cat, and using mantras to help deal with a mischievous cat and avoid unnecessary reactive anger.\n\n\n\nHere are tips that can help with this powerful practice:\n\nIn the beginning, pick a time when you and your cat are already somewhat relaxed. This will help build a successful Petitation practice. As you develop your practice, you will find yourself more and more relaxed. You will find yourself relaxed more and more often as you develop your practice. As you gain more experience, it will be easier to Petitate whenever it fits into your schedule.\n\n\n\nFind a comfortable position for you and your cat—as long as you don’t fall asleep, I recommend being comfortable so meditating is pleasurable and you are more likely to do it.\n\n\n\nTry to incorporate petitating as a daily habit. Although I can’t always do it, I find starting my day with a short Petitation or meditation and ending with a longer Petitation or meditation works well for me.\n\n\n\nStart small, only a few minutes at a time. Petitating is just like working out in a gym. You will develop your Petitation muscles with practice.\n\n\n\nDon’t force it. If you or your cat aren’t in the right space, try again later. Forcing it will only make you and your cat miserable. This doesn’t mean don’t try to stretch yourself a little, just don’t stretch yourself until you break.\n\n\n\nMake sure that you prioritize petitating. You and your cat are worth it. Petitating can help with physical and emotional health and can help create a better bond with your cat.\n\n\n\nIf you or your cat are having a hard time, don’t let it get you frustrated or stressed. Petitating is often challenging even for people with lots of experience.\n\n\n\nIncorporate different types of meditations to keep it fresh and build the meditation muscle in different parts of your brain and body. Petitate in the way that is most helpful at the time. Sometimes I am a bit grumpy and need a gratitude meditation with my cat, whereas other times I need to be more centered and my Equanimity Petitation is more helpful. It’s all about training your mind.\n\n\n\nFinally, let it be fun—meditating/petitating isn’t meant to be a chore! When we Petitate, we get to improve our health, help our pets relax and form a deeper bond with us, and we no longer have to choose between paying attention to our pets and meditating.", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265579766395076608/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265578815429763072", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "Cats, like people, can be mercurial and unpredictable. Each cat is unique. I didn’t know any cats well growing up, but developed an appreciation for them in my late 20’s. While no cat is going to act the same way all day or all week, I have noticed a few interesting and recurring cat traits which are excellent examples of Buddhist principles. Here are just three.<br /><br /><br /><br />1. Non-Doing<br /><br />If you’ve ever seen a cat truly relaxing, you have witnessed an excellent example of non-doing. Cats are able to let go and enjoy a swath of carpet, couch, and/or sunshine with a casual abandon that is sometimes hard for humans to attain. Many times have I wanted to feel the restfulness of a relaxing cat. I take their arrival in my lap for a nap as permission to take it easy for a while.<br /><br /><br /><br />To let doing less be enough can be countercultural during times of overflowing media and consistent pressure to compete and produce. The paradox of non-doing is that it can actually involve doing things very efficiently; by using only the required effort and energy, and no more, actions can be performed with a smoothness and fluidity that is artful and purposeful.<br /><br />2. Self-Love<br /><br />You do not have to teach cats self-love; cats love themselves immediately and fully. Like human children, when they are kittens, they love what is fun and what feels good and pursue it with relentless gusto. This attribute, for many cats, lasts their whole lives. They lick and groom themselves, they stretch luxuriantly, and they express their needs to others, often quite openly.<br /><br /><br /><br />cat preening<br /><br /><br /><br />They are not known for giving out false affection. The demeanor a cat takes when asking or demanding to be given attention and affection (but often only in the very specific way he prefers) is an excellent model of knowing and asking for what you want. When cats are with someone they trust, they are excellent role models in receiving affection unapologetically. Fulfilling your own needs is a basic principle of self-love.<br /><br /><br /><br />There may be times, such as when a cat is demanding a treat with a loud meow or pushing another cat out of the way for food, that this self-love also comes with a degree of self-entitlement and selfishness, or what a Buddhist might consider being tied up by ego or grasping. But we can learn from this too, and reflect on when, in our own lives, we are perhaps very much like a cat meowing for a treat.<br /><br /><br /><br />I think most people who have enjoyed a loving friendship with a cat will agree that they are not wholly selfish animals; many are known to nuzzle, follow, lay on, play with, and befriend humans quite kindly. I was lucky enough to live with one cat named Monster who was one of the gentlest and most peaceful souls I have encountered.<br /><br />3. Living Freely in the Moment<br /><br />Suzuki describes the ungraspable flow of life from moment to moment, and advises that we exclaim “Yes!” as we, ourselves, flow along. A cat can change very quickly from resting to playing if a feathered toy whizzes by her ears. A cat says yes and follows the toy, even though it had not planned to do so a few minutes ago. Cats respond in the moment in the way that feels right to their current selves; if a cardboard box appears, they may explore, sleep in, or attack it, depending on their fancy.<br /><br />The other two traits mentioned above: a cat’s ability to practice non-doing and to be self-loving, are further evidence of this third trait, living in the moment. Letting go into non-doing and self acceptance go a long way towards living freely and being present. Though the cats that live with us have become largely domesticated, they retain the grounding presence in their bodies (wherein they can experience the moment directly) that is a trait of species who remain connected to nature.<br /><br /><br /><br />When you see a Sandpiper at the beach skipping along the sand with its backward knees, or a lion resting in the grass with his family on a nature program, you can see how well they inhabit their own bodies and the moment in which they live. Cats, though acclimated to human culture, still possess an ability to be natural that we can learn from. They say yes to where they are by living in their own bodies and responding intuitively to their surroundings.<br /><br />Abiding in the present, letting go of ourselves, loving ourselves, non-doing – it’s a tall order to carry out. Of course, cats, like people, can be quirky, aggressive, and confusing, and do not always embody the tenets of Buddhism. The point is, simply, that cats are themselves. They live their lives at home in their bodies.<br /><br /><br /><br />Many humans have become somewhat distanced from their own bodies, the present moment, and the natural universe, and struggle to regain a greater sense of letting go, belonging, and integration. To nap, self-nurture, and play like cats might be a good start.", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265578815429763072", "published": "2021-07-24T07:58:21+00:00", "source": { "content": "Cats, like people, can be mercurial and unpredictable. Each cat is unique. I didn’t know any cats well growing up, but developed an appreciation for them in my late 20’s. While no cat is going to act the same way all day or all week, I have noticed a few interesting and recurring cat traits which are excellent examples of Buddhist principles. Here are just three.\n\n\n\n1. Non-Doing\n\nIf you’ve ever seen a cat truly relaxing, you have witnessed an excellent example of non-doing. Cats are able to let go and enjoy a swath of carpet, couch, and/or sunshine with a casual abandon that is sometimes hard for humans to attain. Many times have I wanted to feel the restfulness of a relaxing cat. I take their arrival in my lap for a nap as permission to take it easy for a while.\n\n\n\nTo let doing less be enough can be countercultural during times of overflowing media and consistent pressure to compete and produce. The paradox of non-doing is that it can actually involve doing things very efficiently; by using only the required effort and energy, and no more, actions can be performed with a smoothness and fluidity that is artful and purposeful.\n\n2. Self-Love\n\nYou do not have to teach cats self-love; cats love themselves immediately and fully. Like human children, when they are kittens, they love what is fun and what feels good and pursue it with relentless gusto. This attribute, for many cats, lasts their whole lives. They lick and groom themselves, they stretch luxuriantly, and they express their needs to others, often quite openly.\n\n\n\ncat preening\n\n\n\nThey are not known for giving out false affection. The demeanor a cat takes when asking or demanding to be given attention and affection (but often only in the very specific way he prefers) is an excellent model of knowing and asking for what you want. When cats are with someone they trust, they are excellent role models in receiving affection unapologetically. Fulfilling your own needs is a basic principle of self-love.\n\n\n\nThere may be times, such as when a cat is demanding a treat with a loud meow or pushing another cat out of the way for food, that this self-love also comes with a degree of self-entitlement and selfishness, or what a Buddhist might consider being tied up by ego or grasping. But we can learn from this too, and reflect on when, in our own lives, we are perhaps very much like a cat meowing for a treat.\n\n\n\nI think most people who have enjoyed a loving friendship with a cat will agree that they are not wholly selfish animals; many are known to nuzzle, follow, lay on, play with, and befriend humans quite kindly. I was lucky enough to live with one cat named Monster who was one of the gentlest and most peaceful souls I have encountered.\n\n3. Living Freely in the Moment\n\nSuzuki describes the ungraspable flow of life from moment to moment, and advises that we exclaim “Yes!” as we, ourselves, flow along. A cat can change very quickly from resting to playing if a feathered toy whizzes by her ears. A cat says yes and follows the toy, even though it had not planned to do so a few minutes ago. Cats respond in the moment in the way that feels right to their current selves; if a cardboard box appears, they may explore, sleep in, or attack it, depending on their fancy.\n\nThe other two traits mentioned above: a cat’s ability to practice non-doing and to be self-loving, are further evidence of this third trait, living in the moment. Letting go into non-doing and self acceptance go a long way towards living freely and being present. Though the cats that live with us have become largely domesticated, they retain the grounding presence in their bodies (wherein they can experience the moment directly) that is a trait of species who remain connected to nature.\n\n\n\nWhen you see a Sandpiper at the beach skipping along the sand with its backward knees, or a lion resting in the grass with his family on a nature program, you can see how well they inhabit their own bodies and the moment in which they live. Cats, though acclimated to human culture, still possess an ability to be natural that we can learn from. They say yes to where they are by living in their own bodies and responding intuitively to their surroundings.\n\nAbiding in the present, letting go of ourselves, loving ourselves, non-doing – it’s a tall order to carry out. Of course, cats, like people, can be quirky, aggressive, and confusing, and do not always embody the tenets of Buddhism. The point is, simply, that cats are themselves. They live their lives at home in their bodies.\n\n\n\nMany humans have become somewhat distanced from their own bodies, the present moment, and the natural universe, and struggle to regain a greater sense of letting go, belonging, and integration. To nap, self-nurture, and play like cats might be a good start.", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265578815429763072/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265573395582844928", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "Cats, love them or hate them, you have to agree that there is an aura of mystery surrounding them. So often they seem to be in a completely meditative state. Cat owners swear that the cats feel much more than what it is believed and that there is a strong connection established that simply cannot be broken. Obviously, this is not something that can be proven at the moment. However, it does seem that there is a growing number of people that start to meditate with their cats or even while guided by their cats.<br /><br /><br /><br />When you observe what the cat does on a daily basis and you start to think about it, this whole meditation with cats trend does start to make sense. As an example, the cat will often take a break from whatever happens to stand still and literally do nothing. This helps us so much in business as breaks are needed so that we do not become overworked. Similarly, stretching our body many times during the day is very beneficial for overall health. Guess what cats often do when they do not sleep!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Meditation with a cat is the trend. Cats are seen as zen masters because of how calm they are. According to different studies, cats are really good at helping people to become comfortable with meditating. When a meditation sessions starts you will often see the act joining and relaxing in a similarly meditative state as the owner.<br /><br /><br /><br />How To Meditate With Your Cat<br /><br />With something like this you do not really have much information available and you need to try it to see if it works in your case. Obviously, in some situations this will not be good as meditation is really personal. It is different for everyone. However, if you want to give it a try, start off by creating a space that would be used to meditate on a consistent basis. That is very important to get the cat to cooperate and to get you in the habit of meditating in the first place.<br /><br /><br /><br />The common start is the cross-legged position. Your body will naturally fall in a state that is receptive. Relaxation follows shortly as your mind starts to wonder off. Keep in mind that cats will sometimes hate the place that you chose. They will start to growl and meow. You have to find a place that the cat is going to accept. Then, make it as consistent as possible.<br /><br /><br /><br />In order to help, you can always introduce some soft music as you are not in the house, when the cat is resting naturally. Nature sounds, strings and harps are recommended. Avoid the birds sounds. That exact same music can be used as you relax or meditate. As time passes the cats will quietly start to unwind and then curl up close to you during the meditation session. Some will try to touch you. You may see the cat in your lap or right next to you. Since you are meditating, do not pet the cat and simply meditate as normal. The music helps get the cat used to what is going to happen.<br /><br /><br /><br />Give It A Try", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265573395582844928", "published": "2021-07-24T07:36:49+00:00", "source": { "content": "Cats, love them or hate them, you have to agree that there is an aura of mystery surrounding them. So often they seem to be in a completely meditative state. Cat owners swear that the cats feel much more than what it is believed and that there is a strong connection established that simply cannot be broken. Obviously, this is not something that can be proven at the moment. However, it does seem that there is a growing number of people that start to meditate with their cats or even while guided by their cats.\n\n\n\nWhen you observe what the cat does on a daily basis and you start to think about it, this whole meditation with cats trend does start to make sense. As an example, the cat will often take a break from whatever happens to stand still and literally do nothing. This helps us so much in business as breaks are needed so that we do not become overworked. Similarly, stretching our body many times during the day is very beneficial for overall health. Guess what cats often do when they do not sleep!\n\n\n\n\n\nMeditation with a cat is the trend. Cats are seen as zen masters because of how calm they are. According to different studies, cats are really good at helping people to become comfortable with meditating. When a meditation sessions starts you will often see the act joining and relaxing in a similarly meditative state as the owner.\n\n\n\nHow To Meditate With Your Cat\n\nWith something like this you do not really have much information available and you need to try it to see if it works in your case. Obviously, in some situations this will not be good as meditation is really personal. It is different for everyone. However, if you want to give it a try, start off by creating a space that would be used to meditate on a consistent basis. That is very important to get the cat to cooperate and to get you in the habit of meditating in the first place.\n\n\n\nThe common start is the cross-legged position. Your body will naturally fall in a state that is receptive. Relaxation follows shortly as your mind starts to wonder off. Keep in mind that cats will sometimes hate the place that you chose. They will start to growl and meow. You have to find a place that the cat is going to accept. Then, make it as consistent as possible.\n\n\n\nIn order to help, you can always introduce some soft music as you are not in the house, when the cat is resting naturally. Nature sounds, strings and harps are recommended. Avoid the birds sounds. That exact same music can be used as you relax or meditate. As time passes the cats will quietly start to unwind and then curl up close to you during the meditation session. Some will try to touch you. You may see the cat in your lap or right next to you. Since you are meditating, do not pet the cat and simply meditate as normal. The music helps get the cat used to what is going to happen.\n\n\n\nGive It A Try", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265573395582844928/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265171849432559616", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "<a href=\"https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265171849432559616\" target=\"_blank\">https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265171849432559616</a>", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265171849432559616", "published": "2021-07-23T05:01:13+00:00", "source": { "content": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265171849432559616", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265171849432559616/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265169474776162304", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "While meditation and modeling are often seen as worlds apart, they find common ground in one beautiful and unique human being: Jasmine Sanders.<br /><br /><a href=\"https://youtu.be/jE4FNEMs9gQ\" target=\"_blank\">https://youtu.be/jE4FNEMs9gQ</a><br /><br />Jasmine is a rising star in the modeling industry, who has recently graced the covers of Maxim, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and the 2020 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. Having recently attained supermodel status, Jasmine is now known in the industry as “Golden Barbie” for her mixed-race golden complexion.<br /><br />But while she may seem like a picture of superhuman perfection on the surface, her soul runs deep, and her inner world is intensely human. Jasmine has privately struggled with anxiety and panic attacks that have interfered with her life and career. She has recently taken up meditation as a way to transcend her stresses & anxieties, and live a happier life.<br /><br /><br /><br />I’ve spent the past few years working mainly with gurus and zen masters, so interviewing a supermodel was a new experience for me. I found myself kneeling in the sand on Miami Beach, setting up a bunch of tripods & video cameras, waiting for Jasmine to arrive, wondering what our conversation would be like. But when Jasmine emerged from the 92nd Street beach entrance, joyful presence radiating from her bouncy gait and kind smile, my worries fell away. I could see that she was not just some conceptual “supermodel” – she’s a human being, with a deep soul and powerful emotions, just like me.<br /><br /><br /><br />After a centering mindful meditation and a powerful pranayama breath-work, we were deeply immersed in the present moment, and ready to have a real conversation about anxiety, meditation, self-esteem and the modeling industry.<br /><br /><br /><br />We’ll be releasing clips from the Jasmine Sanders Meditation interview over the coming weeks, in honor of Womens’ History Month. The full unedited interview will be available upon request.<br /><br /><br /><br />In this first clip, Jasmine opens up about how anxiety has affected her life and her modeling career, and how she has been able to rise above it through meditation:", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265169474776162304", "published": "2021-07-23T04:51:47+00:00", "source": { "content": "While meditation and modeling are often seen as worlds apart, they find common ground in one beautiful and unique human being: Jasmine Sanders.\n\nhttps://youtu.be/jE4FNEMs9gQ\n\nJasmine is a rising star in the modeling industry, who has recently graced the covers of Maxim, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and the 2020 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. Having recently attained supermodel status, Jasmine is now known in the industry as “Golden Barbie” for her mixed-race golden complexion.\n\nBut while she may seem like a picture of superhuman perfection on the surface, her soul runs deep, and her inner world is intensely human. Jasmine has privately struggled with anxiety and panic attacks that have interfered with her life and career. She has recently taken up meditation as a way to transcend her stresses & anxieties, and live a happier life.\n\n\n\nI’ve spent the past few years working mainly with gurus and zen masters, so interviewing a supermodel was a new experience for me. I found myself kneeling in the sand on Miami Beach, setting up a bunch of tripods & video cameras, waiting for Jasmine to arrive, wondering what our conversation would be like. But when Jasmine emerged from the 92nd Street beach entrance, joyful presence radiating from her bouncy gait and kind smile, my worries fell away. I could see that she was not just some conceptual “supermodel” – she’s a human being, with a deep soul and powerful emotions, just like me.\n\n\n\nAfter a centering mindful meditation and a powerful pranayama breath-work, we were deeply immersed in the present moment, and ready to have a real conversation about anxiety, meditation, self-esteem and the modeling industry.\n\n\n\nWe’ll be releasing clips from the Jasmine Sanders Meditation interview over the coming weeks, in honor of Womens’ History Month. The full unedited interview will be available upon request.\n\n\n\nIn this first clip, Jasmine opens up about how anxiety has affected her life and her modeling career, and how she has been able to rise above it through meditation:", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265169474776162304/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265167577331970048", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "Vetiver<br /><br />Sandalwood<br /><br />Atlas Cedarwood<br /><br />Palo Santo<br /><br />Patchouli<br /><br />Clary Sage<br /><br />Lavender<br /><br />Roman Chamomile<br /><br />Frankincense<br /><br />Myrrh<br /><br />Ylang Ylang<br /><br />Neroli<br /><br />Jasmine", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265167577331970048", "published": "2021-07-23T04:44:15+00:00", "source": { "content": "Vetiver\n\nSandalwood\n\nAtlas Cedarwood\n\nPalo Santo\n\nPatchouli\n\nClary Sage\n\nLavender\n\nRoman Chamomile\n\nFrankincense\n\nMyrrh\n\nYlang Ylang\n\nNeroli\n\nJasmine", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265167577331970048/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265165052148166656", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "Jasmine: Jasmine is quite a popular flower which is taken in use for better meditation and increasing focusing power. A bunch of jasmines is enough to make you feel detox and relaxing in just a few seconds. Keep them near to your place and enjoy the majestic vibes of it. You can mix them with roses and lilies for creating an amazing aroma.<br /><br />", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265165052148166656", "published": "2021-07-23T04:34:12+00:00", "source": { "content": "Jasmine: Jasmine is quite a popular flower which is taken in use for better meditation and increasing focusing power. A bunch of jasmines is enough to make you feel detox and relaxing in just a few seconds. Keep them near to your place and enjoy the majestic vibes of it. You can mix them with roses and lilies for creating an amazing aroma.\n\n", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265165052148166656/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265164180029616128", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "The White Lotus Flower symbolizes purity. The color white will almost always be a representation of purity. The White Lotus Flower more accurately symbolizes a purification of the mind, body, and spirit. Buddhists believe very strongly that suffering is an essential part of being human.<br /><br />", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1265164180029616128", "published": "2021-07-23T04:30:45+00:00", "source": { "content": "The White Lotus Flower symbolizes purity. The color white will almost always be a representation of purity. The White Lotus Flower more accurately symbolizes a purification of the mind, body, and spirit. Buddhists believe very strongly that suffering is an essential part of being human.\n\n", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1265164180029616128/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1264793302892720128", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "I would consider myself a bit of a ‘fishing nut’ and I am sure those that know me would agree, and honestly. I love it. All forms from fly fishing to spearfishing. To me, they all encompass similar properties that make me completely addicted to the act.<br /><br />I would say my personality type would be that of an extravert. I have a lot of energy that I enjoy sharing my energy with others.<br /><br />I am by no means ‘built like a fisherman’. I am essentially a Computer Nerd who spends their days in front of a computer in an office.<br /><br />I often find myself explaining why I love fishing so much to people and recently I have discovered it is due to it being my form of meditation.<br /><br />The leap to understand why I loved fishing so much came when I invested in a kayak. This meant I was fishing alone. It was on one particular fishing trip where I was sitting alone in the middle of the sea, I leant back in my kayak and I realised, the stresses from the ‘city life’ and all that which surrounds it was not present in my mind. My shoulders were relaxed, my mind was clear, and all I was thinking about was how I could get a fish, onto the other end of my line.<br /><br />At this moment I realised. This is my meditation.<br /><br />I have always been envious of those that meditate, do yoga and lay there ‘thinking about nothing’. I have never had a still mind. I would say I am very easily distracted. However the moment I recognised this stillness while in the middle of the ocean, my fondness for fishing grew exponentially.<br /><br />For those that see fishing as simply the act of killing fish for consumption, I understand why you think that, and to be honest, most people are introduced to fishing in this way.<br /><br />A lot of time, when you first start going fishing you will be introduced to it as ‘we have to catch a fish for this day to be successful’. And typically that is what happens when you fish with a group of people or pay to go fishing on a fishing charter.<br /><br />After a while, the pleasure of fishing using a technique you know works, in a spot in the ocean you know holds fish, ‘going fishing’ changes entirely.<br /><br />It is no longer enjoyable in the same way it once was. This is where you start to learn new fishing techniques, try new destinations, target different fish and get a whole new appreciation for the ocean than you ever knew.<br /><br />This is why you will find a lot of long time fisherman, are extremely knowledgable and fond of the ocean to a point where they are on the way to being environmentalists.<br /><br />The Preparation<br /><br />For me, a ‘day fishing’ starts with a tonne of preparation. Usually, I have a whole list of ‘spots’ I would love to try. I often spend my spare time looking at ocean maps which display depth contour lines, similar to that below.<br /><br /><br /><br />From here I mark a bunch of ‘spots’ I would like to try.<br /><br />The trick is before being able to do this, you need to understand the fish you are targeting.<br /><br />You see in New Zealand where I reside, Snapper would likely the most targeted and enjoyed fish by recreational fisherman.<br /><br /><br /><br />Snapper is prevalent in Auckland, NZ and is relatively easy to find. First, you need to understand the conditions Snapper typically hang out when they are in ‘shallow water’.<br /><br />Snapper enjoys sitting on ‘ledges’ where the ocean floor essentially forms a ‘ledge’, typically with a combination of rocks and seaweed. If you fish a spot where those conditions exist, you are heading in the right direction.<br /><br />Secondly, you should know that Snapper is not super fussy in what they are eating, but if you know they hang around rocks & seaweed, you can assume they will be feeding on shellfish, crabs & other small fish. This would mean you need to consider that baits or lures you would want to use when you target the fish. Every fish is attracted to different baits, so understanding what bait a fish is typically attracted to is vital in the ‘act of going fishing’.<br /><br />You then should consider the tides and the time of day you want to fish.<br /><br />I like to go fishing in the morning, be there while the sun is coming up and on an incoming tide… this is just my preference.<br /><br />Once you have figure out ‘the spot’, the time of day to go, the bait you are fishing to target the fish you are wanting to catch. Now you ‘go fishing’.<br /><br />The days of preparation you have put into thinking about this trip has now arrived, now you need to figure out the ‘Technique’.<br /><br />The Technique<br /><br />Often when targeting Snapper people will use what is knows as ‘dead bait’. Dead bait is essentially a chopped up piece of a ‘baitfish’. It could be a smaller fish that Snapper typically target, or a piece of a larger fish that the snapper will feed off.<br /><br /><br /><br />This is likely to be the first ‘technique’ you will be introduced to.<br /><br />“Put some bait on a hook, drop it to the bottom, when you feel a nibble, yank on the line”.<br /><br />Now let me tell you, this has been the most ‘profitable’ form of fishing I have done, its relatively easy, and the fun is ultimately feeling a bite and pulling it up.<br /><br />To me, this enjoyment has mostly worn off.<br /><br />I now prefer the challenge of using lures where you need to understand how to ‘work the bait’ to imitate a live fish. This uses what is knows as a ‘soft plastics’ as opposed to a ‘dead bait’, and its a technique that takes a lot of practice.<br /><br />You see, some fish are extremely clever, the moment they realise that it is ‘not real’ they won’t touch it. Which means, when you start learning a new technique, you are unlikely to catch anything at all.<br /><br />This is the meditation aspect comes in.<br /><br />The Meditation<br /><br />Casting your line hundreds it times, concentrating on the hand movements, line speed, position you placed your bait in front of you, the time you wait for it to sink down, looking at the line speed as it feeds out incase a fish takes the bait on the way down.<br /><br />All of these things I liken to the practice of meditation when we listen to our breathing, visualising parts of the body relaxing. All of these techniques used to distract the mind and concentrate on the present, on ‘self’; all of which I practice while I fish.<br /><br />Now sure, then comes the inevitable ‘bite’ at this point the attention turns to the event at hand. How much pressure to apply to the lure to ensure it stays in the fishes mouth. How much drag to apply so if the fish runs off, It doesn’t pull the hook in the process.<br /><br />Once you eventually get the fish up. You can always set it free. I will send the majority of fish species I catch-free. If I need fish to eat, I will take one however I no longer ‘fish to get as much as I can’, that goal left me long ago.<br /><br />The Environment<br /><br />To me, working in an office is my day job, because of this I think fishing does me a whole lot of good simply for the fact that it gets me outside and in nature. There is something extremely calming about being alone in nature. The sound, the smells. the sights.<br /><br />From ocean kayaking around islands while seabirds float alongside, to spearfishing under the ocean as you swim amongst the seaweed and lay on the ocean floor; to fly fishing in a river as the native bird’s nest in trees above your head. The environment plays an enormous role in what makes fishing so special.<br /><br />One of my fondest days fishing was one where I left the beach as the sun was coming up, I fished all morning without keeping anything. Around lunchtime, I caught a fish which I decided to eat for my lunch. I paddled to a nearby island, sat on the beach and prepared it for my lunch.<br /><br />All of this was done alone. In silence. I didn’t catch hundreds of fish that day, I didn’t catch the biggest fish that day; however it was on that day; alone in nature, alone in the environment; my mind was still.<br /><br /><br /><br />Now I fish for the challenge. The space and time it gives me to relax. While I am sitting in the ocean alone in my kayak, trying to imitate a fish at the other end of my line, and waiting for that tap on the line to suggest I might be doing something right. The chance that I might succeed in my attempts. That keeps me going back time and time again.<br /><br />I write this to explain why I love fishing. Much more than the simple act of killing fish. Its the time it gives me to be still, to be calm, and to appreciate all the things around me that we often ignore in our busy lives.", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1264793302892720128", "published": "2021-07-22T03:57:00+00:00", "source": { "content": "I would consider myself a bit of a ‘fishing nut’ and I am sure those that know me would agree, and honestly. I love it. All forms from fly fishing to spearfishing. To me, they all encompass similar properties that make me completely addicted to the act.\n\nI would say my personality type would be that of an extravert. I have a lot of energy that I enjoy sharing my energy with others.\n\nI am by no means ‘built like a fisherman’. I am essentially a Computer Nerd who spends their days in front of a computer in an office.\n\nI often find myself explaining why I love fishing so much to people and recently I have discovered it is due to it being my form of meditation.\n\nThe leap to understand why I loved fishing so much came when I invested in a kayak. This meant I was fishing alone. It was on one particular fishing trip where I was sitting alone in the middle of the sea, I leant back in my kayak and I realised, the stresses from the ‘city life’ and all that which surrounds it was not present in my mind. My shoulders were relaxed, my mind was clear, and all I was thinking about was how I could get a fish, onto the other end of my line.\n\nAt this moment I realised. This is my meditation.\n\nI have always been envious of those that meditate, do yoga and lay there ‘thinking about nothing’. I have never had a still mind. I would say I am very easily distracted. However the moment I recognised this stillness while in the middle of the ocean, my fondness for fishing grew exponentially.\n\nFor those that see fishing as simply the act of killing fish for consumption, I understand why you think that, and to be honest, most people are introduced to fishing in this way.\n\nA lot of time, when you first start going fishing you will be introduced to it as ‘we have to catch a fish for this day to be successful’. And typically that is what happens when you fish with a group of people or pay to go fishing on a fishing charter.\n\nAfter a while, the pleasure of fishing using a technique you know works, in a spot in the ocean you know holds fish, ‘going fishing’ changes entirely.\n\nIt is no longer enjoyable in the same way it once was. This is where you start to learn new fishing techniques, try new destinations, target different fish and get a whole new appreciation for the ocean than you ever knew.\n\nThis is why you will find a lot of long time fisherman, are extremely knowledgable and fond of the ocean to a point where they are on the way to being environmentalists.\n\nThe Preparation\n\nFor me, a ‘day fishing’ starts with a tonne of preparation. Usually, I have a whole list of ‘spots’ I would love to try. I often spend my spare time looking at ocean maps which display depth contour lines, similar to that below.\n\n\n\nFrom here I mark a bunch of ‘spots’ I would like to try.\n\nThe trick is before being able to do this, you need to understand the fish you are targeting.\n\nYou see in New Zealand where I reside, Snapper would likely the most targeted and enjoyed fish by recreational fisherman.\n\n\n\nSnapper is prevalent in Auckland, NZ and is relatively easy to find. First, you need to understand the conditions Snapper typically hang out when they are in ‘shallow water’.\n\nSnapper enjoys sitting on ‘ledges’ where the ocean floor essentially forms a ‘ledge’, typically with a combination of rocks and seaweed. If you fish a spot where those conditions exist, you are heading in the right direction.\n\nSecondly, you should know that Snapper is not super fussy in what they are eating, but if you know they hang around rocks & seaweed, you can assume they will be feeding on shellfish, crabs & other small fish. This would mean you need to consider that baits or lures you would want to use when you target the fish. Every fish is attracted to different baits, so understanding what bait a fish is typically attracted to is vital in the ‘act of going fishing’.\n\nYou then should consider the tides and the time of day you want to fish.\n\nI like to go fishing in the morning, be there while the sun is coming up and on an incoming tide… this is just my preference.\n\nOnce you have figure out ‘the spot’, the time of day to go, the bait you are fishing to target the fish you are wanting to catch. Now you ‘go fishing’.\n\nThe days of preparation you have put into thinking about this trip has now arrived, now you need to figure out the ‘Technique’.\n\nThe Technique\n\nOften when targeting Snapper people will use what is knows as ‘dead bait’. Dead bait is essentially a chopped up piece of a ‘baitfish’. It could be a smaller fish that Snapper typically target, or a piece of a larger fish that the snapper will feed off.\n\n\n\nThis is likely to be the first ‘technique’ you will be introduced to.\n\n“Put some bait on a hook, drop it to the bottom, when you feel a nibble, yank on the line”.\n\nNow let me tell you, this has been the most ‘profitable’ form of fishing I have done, its relatively easy, and the fun is ultimately feeling a bite and pulling it up.\n\nTo me, this enjoyment has mostly worn off.\n\nI now prefer the challenge of using lures where you need to understand how to ‘work the bait’ to imitate a live fish. This uses what is knows as a ‘soft plastics’ as opposed to a ‘dead bait’, and its a technique that takes a lot of practice.\n\nYou see, some fish are extremely clever, the moment they realise that it is ‘not real’ they won’t touch it. Which means, when you start learning a new technique, you are unlikely to catch anything at all.\n\nThis is the meditation aspect comes in.\n\nThe Meditation\n\nCasting your line hundreds it times, concentrating on the hand movements, line speed, position you placed your bait in front of you, the time you wait for it to sink down, looking at the line speed as it feeds out incase a fish takes the bait on the way down.\n\nAll of these things I liken to the practice of meditation when we listen to our breathing, visualising parts of the body relaxing. All of these techniques used to distract the mind and concentrate on the present, on ‘self’; all of which I practice while I fish.\n\nNow sure, then comes the inevitable ‘bite’ at this point the attention turns to the event at hand. How much pressure to apply to the lure to ensure it stays in the fishes mouth. How much drag to apply so if the fish runs off, It doesn’t pull the hook in the process.\n\nOnce you eventually get the fish up. You can always set it free. I will send the majority of fish species I catch-free. If I need fish to eat, I will take one however I no longer ‘fish to get as much as I can’, that goal left me long ago.\n\nThe Environment\n\nTo me, working in an office is my day job, because of this I think fishing does me a whole lot of good simply for the fact that it gets me outside and in nature. There is something extremely calming about being alone in nature. The sound, the smells. the sights.\n\nFrom ocean kayaking around islands while seabirds float alongside, to spearfishing under the ocean as you swim amongst the seaweed and lay on the ocean floor; to fly fishing in a river as the native bird’s nest in trees above your head. The environment plays an enormous role in what makes fishing so special.\n\nOne of my fondest days fishing was one where I left the beach as the sun was coming up, I fished all morning without keeping anything. Around lunchtime, I caught a fish which I decided to eat for my lunch. I paddled to a nearby island, sat on the beach and prepared it for my lunch.\n\nAll of this was done alone. In silence. I didn’t catch hundreds of fish that day, I didn’t catch the biggest fish that day; however it was on that day; alone in nature, alone in the environment; my mind was still.\n\n\n\nNow I fish for the challenge. The space and time it gives me to relax. While I am sitting in the ocean alone in my kayak, trying to imitate a fish at the other end of my line, and waiting for that tap on the line to suggest I might be doing something right. The chance that I might succeed in my attempts. That keeps me going back time and time again.\n\nI write this to explain why I love fishing. Much more than the simple act of killing fish. Its the time it gives me to be still, to be calm, and to appreciate all the things around me that we often ignore in our busy lives.", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1264793302892720128/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1264791450411249664", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "An acorn will not grow into a mighty oak tree overnight. We all understand that there is a natural growth process that takes time.<br /><br /><br /><br />By the same token, despite our fast-paced world where instant results are expected, we often expect our own natural process of change or growth to be fast-tracked. We forget about the importance of slow, steady and incremental change.<br /><br /><br /><br />Unfortunately, this logic goes straight out the window when we have a thousand things on our to-do list and we need results fast.<br /><br /><br /><br />At The Way of the Tortoise, we try to focus on taking tortoise steps and have seen the huge impact that tiny actions can have over a long period of time. A drop of water can seem insignificant. Yet we have all seen that enough of these \"drops\" with some force behind them can create a tsunami with catastrophic effects.<br /><br /><br /><br />A powerful habit that can be hugely beneficial in helping us to stay in the moment, get perspective, and remain focussed on tortoise steps is meditation. I personally spend a lot of time extolling the benefits of meditation: for deep rest, improved focus, creating a moment of calm, thinking through challenges. It works for me in all the aspects listed above and I really notice the difference if for some reason I'm not able to find the time to do it.<br /><br /><br /><br />I'm not alone, since the 1960s a growing number of people (millions) have tried, used and loved the benefits it brings. Not least (if celebrity endorsement is important to you) The Beatles, David Lynch, Jerry Seinfeld to name a few.<br /><br /><br /><br />In scientific studies where Transcendental Meditation has been trialled as an alternative, non-invasive option for ex-military sufferers of PTSD, it was found in many cases to be as effective as antidepressants.<br /><br /><br /><br />If like me, you are an evidence-based thinker (I admit I often get left behind when theories become a little ungrounded) then here are some science-based benefits to adopting a daily meditation practice:<br /><br /><br /><br />Reduces Stress. Stress reduction is one of the most common reasons people try meditation<br /><br />Controls Anxiety<br /><br />Improves Focus<br /><br />Promotes Emotional Health<br /><br />Enhances Self-Awareness<br /><br />Lengthens Attention Span<br /><br />May Reduce Age-Related Memory Loss<br /><br />May Help Fight Addictions<br /><br />Meditation can mean different things to different people. From my perspective, it is a practical tool which works. I personally do not link it to any religious beliefs or spiritual connection. I simply feel happier, more focused, calmer, more productive when I practice it daily.<br /><br /><br /><br />To sum up, it's a powerful habit, that if added to your daily routine can create wonderful health benefits and help you to be happier. No matter who we are or where we come from the need to be happy is universal. So what's stopping you?", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1264791450411249664", "published": "2021-07-22T03:49:39+00:00", "source": { "content": "An acorn will not grow into a mighty oak tree overnight. We all understand that there is a natural growth process that takes time.\n\n\n\nBy the same token, despite our fast-paced world where instant results are expected, we often expect our own natural process of change or growth to be fast-tracked. We forget about the importance of slow, steady and incremental change.\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, this logic goes straight out the window when we have a thousand things on our to-do list and we need results fast.\n\n\n\nAt The Way of the Tortoise, we try to focus on taking tortoise steps and have seen the huge impact that tiny actions can have over a long period of time. A drop of water can seem insignificant. Yet we have all seen that enough of these \"drops\" with some force behind them can create a tsunami with catastrophic effects.\n\n\n\nA powerful habit that can be hugely beneficial in helping us to stay in the moment, get perspective, and remain focussed on tortoise steps is meditation. I personally spend a lot of time extolling the benefits of meditation: for deep rest, improved focus, creating a moment of calm, thinking through challenges. It works for me in all the aspects listed above and I really notice the difference if for some reason I'm not able to find the time to do it.\n\n\n\nI'm not alone, since the 1960s a growing number of people (millions) have tried, used and loved the benefits it brings. Not least (if celebrity endorsement is important to you) The Beatles, David Lynch, Jerry Seinfeld to name a few.\n\n\n\nIn scientific studies where Transcendental Meditation has been trialled as an alternative, non-invasive option for ex-military sufferers of PTSD, it was found in many cases to be as effective as antidepressants.\n\n\n\nIf like me, you are an evidence-based thinker (I admit I often get left behind when theories become a little ungrounded) then here are some science-based benefits to adopting a daily meditation practice:\n\n\n\nReduces Stress. Stress reduction is one of the most common reasons people try meditation\n\nControls Anxiety\n\nImproves Focus\n\nPromotes Emotional Health\n\nEnhances Self-Awareness\n\nLengthens Attention Span\n\nMay Reduce Age-Related Memory Loss\n\nMay Help Fight Addictions\n\nMeditation can mean different things to different people. From my perspective, it is a practical tool which works. I personally do not link it to any religious beliefs or spiritual connection. I simply feel happier, more focused, calmer, more productive when I practice it daily.\n\n\n\nTo sum up, it's a powerful habit, that if added to your daily routine can create wonderful health benefits and help you to be happier. No matter who we are or where we come from the need to be happy is universal. So what's stopping you?", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1264791450411249664/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1264788638629322752", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "Many coral reefs worldwide are rapidly declining, but efficient restoration techniques are not yet available. Here, we evaluate methodologies for reef restoration based on the “gardening concept”. A floating mid-water prototype nursery was placed at 6 m depth (14 m above sea-bottom) within the nutrient-enriched environment of a fish farm (Eilat, Red Sea). Ten colonies from five branching coral species provided 6,813 fragments (0.5–3 cm height). The fragments, each attached to a plastic pin, were inserted into plastic nets that were tied to a rope-net floating nursery. After 144 nursery days, only 13.1% of the fragments died and 21.2% were detached by mechanical forces. Small colonies ready for transplantation developed within 144–200 days. Ramets’ ecological volumes increased 13–46 folds and their heights by a factor of 3.5. After 306 days, the ecological volumes of the colonies increased 147–163 fold as compared to original volumes (revealing a daily growth rate constant of 1.67% during the first 5–10 months) and height values by a factor of six. Building and maintenance costs of the nursery were low. This nursery prototype demonstrates the feasibility of the coral “gardening concept” by fulfilling several important needs, namely, mass production of coral colonies at low costs, high survivorship, fast growth, short nursery phase and improved methodologies for handling farmed colonies.", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1264788638629322752", "published": "2021-07-22T03:38:29+00:00", "source": { "content": "Many coral reefs worldwide are rapidly declining, but efficient restoration techniques are not yet available. Here, we evaluate methodologies for reef restoration based on the “gardening concept”. A floating mid-water prototype nursery was placed at 6 m depth (14 m above sea-bottom) within the nutrient-enriched environment of a fish farm (Eilat, Red Sea). Ten colonies from five branching coral species provided 6,813 fragments (0.5–3 cm height). The fragments, each attached to a plastic pin, were inserted into plastic nets that were tied to a rope-net floating nursery. After 144 nursery days, only 13.1% of the fragments died and 21.2% were detached by mechanical forces. Small colonies ready for transplantation developed within 144–200 days. Ramets’ ecological volumes increased 13–46 folds and their heights by a factor of 3.5. After 306 days, the ecological volumes of the colonies increased 147–163 fold as compared to original volumes (revealing a daily growth rate constant of 1.67% during the first 5–10 months) and height values by a factor of six. Building and maintenance costs of the nursery were low. This nursery prototype demonstrates the feasibility of the coral “gardening concept” by fulfilling several important needs, namely, mass production of coral colonies at low costs, high survivorship, fast growth, short nursery phase and improved methodologies for handling farmed colonies.", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1264788638629322752/activity" }, { "type": "Create", "actor": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "object": { "type": "Note", "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1264787960500965376", "attributedTo": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591", "content": "Into the blue ocean with fishes, tortues, coral reef, dolphins, underwater vegetation, corals, undewater flowers, all accompanied by music for a long and a complete relax united to a gorgeous and healing nature.", "to": [ "https://www.w3.org/ns/activitystreams#Public" ], "cc": [ "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/followers" ], "tag": [], "url": "https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1264787960500965376", "published": "2021-07-22T03:35:47+00:00", "source": { "content": "Into the blue ocean with fishes, tortues, coral reef, dolphins, underwater vegetation, corals, undewater flowers, all accompanied by music for a long and a complete relax united to a gorgeous and healing nature.", "mediaType": "text/plain" } }, "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/entities/urn:activity:1264787960500965376/activity" } ], "id": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/outbox", "partOf": "https://www.minds.com/api/activitypub/users/1259099563482947591/outboxoutbox" }