Accepting and embracing the inability to be fully present can lead to a calmer state of mind.
Using toys or objects as a way to offload mental energy can help improve focus and presence.
ADHD can be embraced as part of one's identity, and strategies can be developed to work with its challenges and find greater presence.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Being Present
The podcast episode discusses the challenge of being present and enjoying the moment. The speaker highlights how their mind constantly jumps between different thoughts and distractions, making it difficult to focus and fully experience the present. They share personal examples of how this lack of presence affects their ability to enjoy simple things like sushi or appreciate past memories. The speaker expresses frustration and a desire to find a solution but acknowledges that previous attempts have been unsuccessful. They also discuss the impact of ADHD on their ability to be present and reflect on the layers of thoughts constantly occupying their mind.
Accepting the Inability to Be Present
The podcast encourages the listener to accept their inability to be present and embrace it rather than fighting against it. The host suggests that constantly trying to force presence creates tension and internal conflict. Instead, they encourage the listener to acknowledge their struggles with presence and adopt a more accepting attitude towards their scattered mind. By shifting the focus from trying to be present to accepting the present moment and the challenges it brings, they suggest that a calmer state of mind can be achieved.
Using Toys as a Distraction
The podcast suggests using toys or objects as a way to offload excess mental energy and reduce the number of layers of thoughts that occupy the mind. The speaker shares personal examples of engaging with toys like playing with Pokémon cards or watching random videos to help focus their attention and reduce the overwhelm of scattered thoughts. They compare this to the concept of meditation, where the mind can find calmness and focus by engaging with a specific task or object, allowing for a more present state of mind. The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding individualized toys or distractions that work best for each person to cultivate a calmer and more focused mind.
Using toys as a way to focus and be more present
The podcast episode discusses the use of toys as a tool to help with attention and presence. The speaker explains that toys can help redirect excess energy and focus, providing a tactile and engaging distraction. By using toys like fidget spinners or prayer beads, individuals with ADHD can shift their attention away from internal conflicts and instead focus on the physical sensation of the toy. The speaker suggests that using toys can be beneficial in grounding oneself and improving mindfulness in everyday activities.
Accepting ADHD and embracing different layers of consciousness
The podcast episode explores the idea of accepting ADHD as a part of one's identity and embracing the different layers of consciousness that come with it. The speaker encourages individuals with ADHD to let go of the expectation of complete presence and instead focus on becoming more present within each layer of their mind. They emphasize the importance of not fighting against ADHD symptoms but rather finding strategies to work with them. By acknowledging the gift and challenges of ADHD, individuals can explore different techniques like touch, reducing sensory input, and focusing attention to find their own unique path towards greater presence and acceptance.
Today Mizkif returns to Dr. K's power hour for help in dealing with his ADHD. As it turns out, Mizkif inadvertently discovered meditation techniques that can help anchor him in the present.