Whenever we do something over and over, we are practicing that movement or behavior. We are training ourselves to continue doing it, and to get better at it. In many cases it is very helpful: I practice yoga to strengthen my muscles, and increase my flexibility and body conditioning. I am training my body to move in certain ways, into certain yoga postures. I am training my mind to be calm and focused, my body to breathe in a specific pattern. I practice piano to learn to play music. I am training my fingers, arms and brain to work in specific ways, to read music, and to play easy or complicated pieces. When I meditate, I am training my mind to slow down, to stop the mental chatter (“monkey mind”) and to focus on my breath, not on the thoughts that (inevitably) come up.
When I first bought a piano fifteen years ago, my plan was to get out my old music (I had played as a teenager, 35 years earlier), buy a few books, and go at it. My brother-in-law, who is a musician, insisted that I find a teacher, so that I would not develop bad habits. I did find a teacher, and it was good that I did. My teachers over the years have moved me away from bad habits like incorrect finger or wrist positions, slouching at the keyboard, or hunching my shoulders when the music is difficult. And they have helped me move forward much faster than I would have otherwise. I truly appreciate my teachers.
In the Process, we use the methods of training and practice as well. By applying the principles learned not only at the beginning but throughout the Process, we train ourselves to react differently, to use mental and emotional tools in a new way. Our teachers (licensed therapists) help us with these new skills, to learn to use them appropriately. By practicing them, we get better over time, even well past the end of the nine week class and the Process graduation. While the tools at first can seem somewhat difficult to use, with practice they become easier until they are nearly automatic.
What do you want in your life? How do you want to be? Start practicing those new behaviors and new thoughts. And if that doesn’t work well enough or fast enough for you, find yourself a teacher who can help and guide you.