|
|
Multiple Mindfulness:
8 Ways To Pay Attention
by Maya Frost
How are you smart?
Let me count the ways.
Harvard professor Howard Gardner was the first to
describe the concept of Multiple Intelligences.
According to this widely-accepted theory, we are each
born with a certain amount of intelligence in each
of eight areas, and we have the potential to harness
or develop each of these throughout our lives.
In 1983, Gardner first described seven intelligences:
linguistic, logical/mathematical, spatial, musical,
bodily/kinesthetic, interpersonal and intrapersonal.
He later added an eighth: naturalistic.
Nothing too earth-shaking about this. We all know
gifted writers (using words), engineers (using numbers),
artists (manipulating spaces), musicians (inspired
by sound), athletes (using physical skills), counselors
(understanding others), and biologists (passionate
about nature).
But here's the one I find most interesting: intrapersonal.
According to Gardner, someone with great intrapersonal
intelligence enjoys spending time alone, likes being
still in their own space, is especially adept at understanding
themselves, and is inspired by contemplation.
Now, remember that each of us has at least a little
of all eight kinds of intelligence, with one or two
areas being the most dominant. Although we can increase
our abilities in all areas, we are naturally attracted
to certain activities. A person with dominant
or developed intrapersonal intelligence is likely
to be innately interested in silent contemplation
and naturally drawn to meditation.
So....what about everybody else? If meditation
comes easily to only a small percentage of the population,
why is it that all approaches to mindfulness require
sitting still and focusing inward?
If we use Multiple Intelligences
theory as a way to recognize our different learning
styles and natural tendencies, we see that there must
be a number of ways to develop mindfulness without
relying solely upon meditation.
Teachers around the globe are employing
Multiple Intelligences theory in the classroom in
order to prepare lessons that appeal to the learning
styles of all types of students. The ultimate goal
of learning specific material is the same no matter
what, but this enlightened approach to teaching is
inclusive and exhilarating.
If meditation fits only ONE of the
eight intelligences (intrapersonal) we are missing
out on seven other areas in which we can learn--and
teach-- mindfulness! Being attached to a single
approach is decidedly limiting and downright archaic.
If you find it difficult to get
motivated to meditate, consider this: perhaps your
particular combination of multiple intelligences would
benefit from a different approach to mindfulness.
In other words, it's not you--it's
the teacher! Or, more precisely, the teachings.
If meditation isn't working for
you, take heart. There are seven other areas in which
mindfulness training can inform, inspire and delight
you.
That's what counts.
© Copyright 2005, Maya Frost
Maya Frost
has taught thousands of people how to pay attention. Through her
company, Real-World Mindfulness Training™, she offers
playful, powerful, eyes-wide-open alternatives to meditation.
To read her free tips and tricks for everyday awareness, visit
http://www.Real-WorldMindfulness.com.
|
|
