Control is not an illusion.

It’s actually a wall I run head-first into on a daily basis.

Whether that‘s trying to get a strong-willed toddler to do something (anything). Anticipating the way a conversation will go. Believing that all workouts will be amazing. People not doing what they say they’ll do or living up to expectations. Believing I will get a block of uninterrupted space for creative work, or watching precious ideas be picked to death by others. You get the picture.

Life is one giant reminder that we are far from in control.

Rich Lees is a mindfulness and meditation teacher, fellow Kiwi and fits neatly into the ‘solid human’ category.

His work is to help others learn to let go of this illusion of control, to be more present. To get more peace and enjoyment in their lives.

When it came time to preparing for this episode, I knew our conversation needed to be different to the obvious series of questions about mindfulness.

But how?

While out for a walk one night I had this wild idea that the best way to do a podcast on mindfulness might be to use this conversation as a 'mindful experimentation'.

To fling open the window and throw-out all of my usual hours of preparation and processes.

To let go of the illusion of control and trust in the higher powers of our universe. To internationally put myself out of the 'known' and into the creative 'unknown' space. To experience what comes up. To live through practice.

As you’ll hear and as intended, there are moments where I got really stuck and uncomfortable. I didn’t know what I was saying or if it was making any sense. Awash with sensations of being in uncharted territory. Grasping, clutching, trying to control, trying to find my way.

Very different to anything I've done on the podcast before.

This episode includes a 10 minute (ish) guided meditation from 5:45 to 17:00 that you can do in your own sweet time. We also cover some common traps and misconceptions around mindfulness and meditation.

Do you ever get the feeling that the other person isn’t really listening? Or how often are you (trying to) listen to someone, while your mind is racing with thoughts. 👋👋👋

We do an reflective listening demonstration, based on ancient practices that’s equal parts eye-opening and enjoyable. It‘s perfect for a time when there’s so much noise in our world and no-one is listening.

The result of this experiment was one of the most freeing and fulfilling experiences in my creative career.

In the days since recording this episode with Rich, my meditation practice became more enjoyable as I watched the drama of my mind unfold - instead of being sucked into it.

And ultimately this conversation changed the way I think about this podcast and what it means to be present.

A big dose of gratitude for Rich for taking on this challenge with me, for leading the meditation and discussion and sharing his experiences with us all.

And for you, I’d love your feedback on the episode and the experimental format.

Keep your mind open and enjoy.

Az 🙏

Check out Rich’s work and mindfulness courses at www.mindfulcentre.com.au

Adventures of the Inside: Vajin Armstrong

Paper Fox RadioBy Az RobertsMar 16, 2022