In this episode of Being Human with Arabelle, Dr. Shefali Tsabary relates to us important details on Conscious Parenting and Mindfulness.

Dr Shefali was originally from India but later on transferred to America at the age of 21. Since then, she went on a journey to discover her true self. Dr Shefali is a world renowned wisdom teacher, clinical psychologist, and international speaker. Her book “The Conscious Parent” was endorsed by Oprah who considered the book as one of the most profound books on parenting she has ever read.

Conscious Parenting is the understanding that parents sometimes unknowingly pass on to their children emotional and psychological baggage stemming from the parent’s own childhood experiences. Sometimes when parents set an expectation on their children, they are not aware whether or not such expectation is fitting or compliant to the wants and needs of a child. As parents, we must understand that our ultimate goal is to allow our child to develop and find their true selves.

Although as parents, it is normal for us to want our children to achieve and have everything that is good. Too much of this desire may sometimes lead to negative effects on the growth of our child without us knowing. Our desire to have control usually stems from our fears of being compared or being not good enough parents.

Especially during this quarantine period, the steady daily presence of family may be a source of stress and triggers which may increase the need for people to express control over one another. It is important at this time that we should recognize that each person has his or her own way of dealing with the stress and anxiety brought about by this abnormal situation. Now is not the time for excessive control and expectation. If we develop mindfulness as parents and individuals, we can save ourselves and our children from the unnecessary burden of stress and expectations. We should always try to remove the need to criticize and control others and replace it with understanding and compassion, since everyone is having a hard time as it is.

Now is the best time to stop the habit of fear and control by learning habits that help us see the positive side of things. A practice of meditation is one of the best ways to control our thoughts and to control our mind into a new state of awareness wherein we become more reflective, more aware, and more responsive to the present moment.