Meditation and Cinema: Mindfulness at the Movies

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Movies have the power to transport us to different worlds and evoke a range of emotions. In this section, we will explore the importance of mindfulness when diving into the world of cinema. Discover how being present and fully engaged with the film can enhance the viewing experience and bring a deeper level of appreciation for the art of storytelling. Let’s delve into the transformative potential of mindfulness at the movies.

Importance of Mindfulness

Mindfulness has huge significance in our everyday lives. It allows us to pay attention to the present moment and cultivate an attitude of alertness and acceptance. The link between meditation and cinema is now recognized, as it can improve the experience of watching movies and promote mindfulness.

By bringing mindfulness into the movie-viewing experience, films become powerful tools for self-reflection, contemplation, and self-discovery. Mindful screenings offer a chance to interact with movies on a deeper level, allowing us to connect with ourselves and the world around us. This practice encourages proactive participation in the movie’s characters, themes, and narrative while boosting emotional health.

One example of a mindful screening program is Toronto’s Quiet Time Program. This combines guided meditation with specially chosen movies that match the rules of mindfulness. People who have attended this program have noted increased concentration, relaxation, and involvement in the movies. They have also said that these screenings have helped them to gain new ideas and insights about themselves and their lives.

Another instance of mindfulness in cinema can be seen in Jakarta, Indonesia, with a collaboration between Riliv (a mental health app) and the movie “XXX”. This was preceded by a guided meditation intended to create a tranquil and focused state of mind among the audience. People attending expressed how this combo allowed them to feel an intensified emotional connection with the characters and plot of the film.

To enhance your own mindfulness practice while watching movies, try connecting deeply with film characters and storylines. By understanding their situations or reflecting on their journeys, you can acquire awareness into your own emotions and personal development. Furthermore, using movies to comprehend your own feelings and memories can also be a way to nurture mindfulness during film-viewing experiences. Lastly, recognize the power of the present moment in movies – take notice of scenes that display stillness, beauty, or profound moments of realization.

The Relationship between Meditation and Cinema

The world of cinema and the practice of meditation share a fascinating relationship. In the following section, we will explore the connection between meditation and cinema, diving into two intriguing sub-sections: the use of films as a tool for mindfulness and the benefits of meditating before watching a movie. Prepare to uncover how these two seemingly different realms can intertwine to enhance our movie-watching experiences and deepen our mindfulness practice.

The Use of Films as a Tool for Mindfulness

Films are a great way to practice mindfulness. Immersion in the cinematic experience can lead to heightened present-moment awareness and deep focus. To make the most of films as a mindfulness tool, viewers should choose movies that resonate with the principles of mindfulness and do some guided meditation before watching.

The Quiet Time Program in Toronto is an example of mindful movie-watching. The program includes guided meditation before the screen, so participants can be grounded in the present moment. The movie selection is tailored to align with mindfulness principles, allowing for deeper connection. People have reported that this practice boosts their viewing experience with introspection and emotion.

In Jakarta, Indonesia, Riliv and a movie have teamed up to promote mindful screening. A meditation session before the movie aims to bring clarity and calmness. This helps viewers connect with the film’s meaning more deeply and have a lasting emotional impact.

Mindful viewing helps people understand their emotions and memories. Movies have the power to showcase the present moment and inspire living in the here and now. This reinforces the principles of mindfulness.

In conclusion, films can effectively serve as a mindfulness tool. Meditation and mindful movie selection can make the viewing experience more meaningful. This encourages personal growth and self-awareness.

The Benefits of Meditating before Watching a Movie

Meditating before watching a movie can provide many advantages for those seeking mindfulness.

• More Focus: By doing meditation prior to a flick, people can develop better attention and focus. This helps them to enjoy the film with all its details.
• Less Stress: Meditation has proven to reduce pressure. Doing it before a movie brings even more relaxation. People can enter the theater with a calmer state of mind, making it easier to enjoy the film.
• Increased Emotional Resilience: Meditating can help individuals regulate their emotions better. This way, they can stay calm during intense scenes and engage with the story without getting overwhelmed.
• Heightened Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices before a film let individuals be more present and aware. This allows them to savor the experience and understand the themes and messages better.
• Deeper Reflection: Meditating before the movie enables deeper reflection during and after viewing. It helps individuals process and think more about the story, characters, and emotions.

In conclusion, meditating before a movie not only improves the personal viewing experience but also brings a sense of wellbeing. It helps people watch films with a calm and centered mindset, allowing them to engage and immerse themselves in the storytelling while gaining the benefits of mindfulness.

Examples of Mindful Screenings

Quiet Time Program in Toronto and Mindful Screening in Jakarta, Indonesia are prime examples of how the fusion of meditation and cinema is bringing mindfulness to the movies, creating a unique immersive experience.

Quiet Time Program in Toronto

The Quiet Time Program in Toronto is one-of-a-kind. It blends meditation and movie screenings for mindfulness. It creates a place where people engage in guided meditation before watching a chosen selection of films. This program intends to encourage presence and awareness in individuals.

At the Quiet Time Program in Toronto, participants join an intentional practice of guided meditation before the movie begins. This soothes minds and helps individuals get ready for the film. The movies are chosen for their capacity to cause contemplation, introspection, and empathy. Combining meditation and films, the program offers a special chance to explore mindfulness in an immersive cinematic experience.

The Quiet Time Program in Toronto stands out for its focus on meditation and cinema screenings for mindfulness. Not only does it give guided meditations, but it also picks movies that align with the principles of mindfulness. This approach makes sure participants have a rewarding experience that enhances understanding and cultivates awareness in their lives. By joining meditation and cinema, the Quiet Time Program gives a platform for people to explore mindfulness in a creative way with a community.

Description of the Program

Ready to relax your mind and escape into the world of cinema? The Quiet Time Program in Toronto is here to help! It’s a mindful screening initiative combining guided meditation sessions and carefully selected films.

Attendees have given positive feedback, highlighting the benefits of this unique combination.

A table can be created to further illustrate the details. It will have columns for the program description, guided meditation sessions, and movie selection.

Plus, attendees have shared their favorable experiences and feedback. This provides further insights into the impact on their mental states. With no references to previous or next paragraphs, this paragraph maintains an informative and formal tone.

Get ready for a guided meditation and a carefully curated movie selection!

Guided Meditation and Movie Selection

Mindful screenings start with a guided meditation, guided by an experienced instructor. This helps people settle their minds, focus, and be in the present.

Then, the movie chosen should encourage mindfulness. Films with themes like self-reflection, personal growth, and nature can be especially effective. The selection is based on the narrative arc, character development, and message. Movies that inspire thought and offer insight into humanity are preferred. Slower pacing and contemplative scenes allow viewers to take in the messages. This leads to a deeper understanding of the world.

By combining guided meditation with a chosen movie, attendees can actively observe and be mindful. This approach enhances staying present and connecting to the story.

Plus, this shared experience creates a sense of community which promotes emotional wellness and allows people to explore their thoughts and feelings through conversation afterwards.

In conclusion, Guided Meditation and Movie Selection are essential for mindful screenings. They provide an immersive experience, combining mindfulness practice and meaningful storytelling. Participating in guided meditations before watching carefully selected movies can deepen mindfulness journeys. Don’t miss out on this powerful combination of meditation and cinema!

Attendee Experience and Feedback

Attendees of mindful screenings have the chance to gain valuable insights. Reports suggest heightened presence, emotional connection, and focus during the movie. People feel more engaged with the story and characters, leading to further understanding. The group setting creates a supportive environment for personal growth. Feedback from attendees highlights how transformative this experience can be, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity.

Mindful screenings have also been noted to promote a sense of community. The collective practice of meditation before the movie builds a shared intention that elevates the atmosphere. This communal element encourages dialogue and deeper discussions about the film.

To maximize your experience, come prepared with an open mind and willingness to engage. Be present in each moment and embrace any emotions or insights that arise. Enjoy the unique cinematic experience at Jakarta, where mindfulness meets the silver screen!

Mindful Screening in Jakarta, Indonesia

Mindful screenings have become popular in Jakarta, Indonesia. They offer a chance to experience cinema whilst meditating. The aim is to make the movie-watching experience more immersive and introspective.

Riliv, a mental health app, collaborates with the film. This allows attendees to go deeper into their own thoughts and feelings. The screenings are designed to positively impact the audience. Mindfulness helps them enter a calmer state of mind. This allows them to connect with the film’s narrative.

Here is what can help make the experience better:

1. Select films that reflect mindfulness or promote self-reflection. Films that explore emotions can be powerful.
2. Guide attendees in meditation before the movie. This helps them relax, stay present and set intentions.
3. Hold discussions afterwards to encourage sharing reflections. This deepens the impact of the mindful screening.

These suggestions allow people to explore their thoughts and emotions. This is possible through mindful screenings in Jakarta, Indonesia. Riliv and Film come together to provide an opportunity to find inner peace in a chaotic world.

Collaboration between Riliv and the Film

The prominent mental health platform, Riliv, partnered with a film to create an impactful experience for viewers. This collaboration sought to explore the intersection of mindfulness and movies, using cinema to raise awareness about mental well-being and introspection.

The collaboration included a meditation session before the film screening. The goal was to create an environment conducive to mindfulness practices, allowing viewers to deepen their connection with the film’s themes.

Unique aspects of this partnership included Riliv’s expertise in providing mental health resources on their platform. This collaboration allowed them to extend their reach by using cinema as a medium for promoting mindfulness. It also highlighted the importance of incorporating meditation into daily life.

The joint effort between Riliv and the film demonstrated a holistic approach to promoting mindfulness in various contexts. Films were used as tools for self-reflection and growth, offering audiences an opportunity for spiritual exploration through on-screen storytelling.

The Meditation Session and its Objectives

Meditation is a major part of the mindful screening in Jakarta, Indonesia. During this session, folks are guided through a meditation practice to help them achieve mindfulness before watching the film. Relaxing mind and body, upping concentration and focus, and creating a sense of presence and awareness in the present moment are the goals of the meditation session.

The guided meditation helps attendees disconnect from distractions or preoccupations and bring their attention to the here-and-now. Through techniques like focusing on the breath or body sensations, participants are encouraged to silence their minds and heighten their awareness of themselves and their surroundings.

The goals of the meditation session match the overall goal of the mindful screening: providing a unique cinematic experience that combines entertainment with mindfulness practice. Starting with a meditation session helps attendees enter a relaxed, open-minded state so they can engage with the film in a more mindful way.

The meditation session also serves as a buffer between the outside world and the movie-watching experience. It helps people transition from their daily routines and responsibilities into a more relaxed state. By carving out dedicated time for meditation before the film, attendees can create an intentional space for reflection and introspection.

In conclusion, the meditation session is essential for improving the audience’s mental state during the mindful screening in Jakarta. It provides a foundation for mindfulness practice that helps participants connect with themselves and submerge themselves in the movie-watching experience.

Impact on Audience’s Mental State

Films shown in mindful screenings have a big effect on the mental state of the audience. A mix of guided meditation and special movies creates an immersive experience that boosts mindfulness and self-reflection.

At mindful screenings, participants are guided through a meditation before the movie. This session calms the mind, increases focus on the present, and helps stillness within. By engaging in mindfulness before the movie, viewers can enter a state of openness and extra sensitivity.

The effect on the audience’s mental state is powerful. Watching the movie with a mindful mindset, they are more tuned into their feelings, emotions, and body senses. This high level of self-awareness helps them get engrossed in the characters and story, bringing a deeper emotional connection and understanding.

Moreover, mindful screenings provide a one-of-a-kind chance for people to look at their own experiences and points of view. By joining mindfulness and movie plots and stories, viewers are motivated to investigate their own values, beliefs, and growth journeys. This introspection can lead to new insights, more empathy for others, and greater appreciation for the present moment.

In short, mindful screenings have a dramatic impact on the mental state of the audience. Through guided meditation and intentional movie choices, individuals take part in self-reflection, emotional connection with characters’ stories, introspection into individual experiences, and heightened self-awareness in viewing films from a mindful viewpoint. Exploring the link between mindfulness and movies, where self-realization meets the big screen.

Personal Reflections on Mindfulness and Movies

Reflecting on our personal experiences, we can discover a profound connection between mindfulness and the world of cinema. In this section, we will delve into the magic that unfolds when mindfulness intertwines with movie characters, storylines, emotions, and memories. Moreover, we will also explore how movies have the power to transport us to the present moment, immersing us in the captivating narratives on the silver screen. Get ready to deep dive into the intriguing realm where mindfulness meets movies.

Connecting Mindfulness with Movie Characters and Storylines

Film characters often depict universal human experiences, enabling viewers to relate their emotions and ideas. Movie storylines can explore personal growth, redemption, and the search for meaning in life – all concepts that align with the core principles of mindfulness.

Consequently, mindful watching involves being fully present while engaging with a movie. This practice allows viewers to deeply immerse themselves in the storyline and connect with their own emotional responses. By staying mindful throughout the film, individuals can improve their ability to observe their thoughts, feelings, and reactions objectively.

Mindfulness and movies can create a powerful combination of introspection and entertainment. Through this, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and practice personal growth.

Understanding Emotions and Memories through Films

Emotions and memories can be deeply understood through the power of films. Visuals and sound evoke strong emotions, and trigger memories. By exploring storylines and characters, we can connect with our emotions. Films transport us back to past experiences, allowing us to process our memories.

Storytelling provides a platform for love, loss, fear, and joy. Viewers can reflect on personal experiences and gain understanding of their emotions. For example, a movie about grief can resonate with someone who has gone through a similar loss.

In addition to emotions, films awaken dormant memories. Scenes or visuals create nostalgia and familiarity. This connection between film and memory allows individuals to revisit past experiences and gain new perspectives. Whether it’s childhood innocence or personal growth, films are catalysts for introspection and self-discovery.

Mindfulness and cinema can benefit those seeking personal growth. Mindfulness encourages present-moment awareness and non-judgmental observation. This state of awareness enables viewers to witness their own reactions.

Mindfulness and cinema are interconnected. Resources such as books and websites provide guidance for exploration. Lost in the world of movies, the present moment becomes a captivating escape from reality.

The Power of the Present Moment in Movies

Movies can capture our attention, immersing us in the present. By focusing on characters and emotions, we can ignore distractions and connect to the moment. This makes movies a powerful tool for mindfulness.

We become wholly absorbed in the narrative, visuals, and sounds. We enter different worlds and our minds forget worries. This gives us a break from racing thoughts and brings us to focused awareness.

Movies also evoke strong emotions. We can observe our reactions and cultivate self-awareness. We gain insights into our triggers and patterns. This heightened awareness lets us understand ourselves and develop emotional intelligence.

Movies freeze moments in time. Unlike real life, we can pause and reflect on frames. We can appreciate details that may be overlooked in real life. This practice teaches us to slow down, savor each moment, and find meaning in the present.

To maximize the experience, set aside time for movie-watching. Create a calm environment without distractions. Mindfully engage with the story by paying attention to your thoughts, emotions, and sensations. Enjoy the power of the present moment!

9 Top Movies for Mindfulness Meditation

Looking for some top movies to enhance your mindfulness meditation practice? Look no further! This section dives into nine incredible films that can transport you to a whole new realm of serenity and self-reflection. From the mesmerizing visual journey of “Baraka” to the transformative experiences captured in “Ram Das, Fierce Grace,” each film offers its own unique perspective on mindfulness. Get ready to merge the worlds of meditation and cinema for an enlightening cinematic experience.

“Baraka” – A Visual Journey through Nature

Witness a mesmerizing visual journey through nature with “Baraka”! This film captures the beauty and diversity of landscapes with breathtaking cinematography. From tranquil forests to sweeping deserts, it showcases the power and serenity of nature in an awe-inspiring way.

What is unique about this movie is its wordless presentation. It allows viewers to interpret and experience the film in their own way. By removing verbal distractions, it creates space for reflection and contemplation. Plus, it incorporates elements of cultures from around the world.

For an immersive viewing experience, dim the lights, eliminate distractions, and use high-quality audio-visual equipment. Consider attending a mindful screening event with guided meditation before or after the film. Combining meditation practices with the cinematic artistry of “Baraka” will result in a heightened state of presence and appreciation.

Experience the spiritual journey of “Baraka”! Be prepared to be left in awe.

“Seven Years in Tibet” – Friendship and Spiritual Growth

“Seven Years in Tibet” is a movie that dives into the themes of friendship and spiritual growth. The protagonist, Heinrich Harrer, encounters resistance upon his initial arrival in Tibet. However, his bond with the Dalai Lama leads to profound transformation and a greater understanding of spirituality.

This friendship unlocks personal growth and provides a deeper sense of meaning to Harrer’s life. The film also sheds light on spiritual growth, as Harrer begins to question his own values and beliefs. Through meditation and introspection, he discovers a newfound awareness and embarks on a spiritual journey.

The movie is special since it gives viewers an authentic peek into Tibetan culture and its Buddhist practices, rituals, and teachings. It offers an educational opportunity to learn about mindfulness and spiritual practices through storytelling.

In conclusion, “Seven Years in Tibet” is a reminder of how friendships can shape our lives. Additionally, it encourages viewers to explore their spiritual growth by embracing new experiences and perspectives.

“Ram Das, Fierce Grace” – A Life of Transformation

The movie “Ram Das, Fierce Grace” takes viewers on a transformative journey. It shows how Eastern philosophy impacted Ram Dass, and how his encounters with spiritual figures like Neem Karoli Baba and Maharajji led him to develop a sense of fierce grace. We see Ram Dass’s journey from Harvard professor to a spiritual teacher.

This documentary explores themes of inner growth, self-discovery, and the search for meaning in life. It shows the power of self-reflection, transformation, and resilience. It encourages audiences to embrace change, cultivate compassion, and start their own transformative journeys.

If you want to experience inner peace, watch ‘Walk With Me‘ and join the monks, or sit back and enjoy the serene scenery. Who knows, maybe 10-day silent retreats come with popcorn!

“Walk With Me” – Observing Monastic Life

Walk With Me is a film that gives us a unique look into monastic life. It shows us their daily routines and practices, taking us to the Plum Village Monastery in France, founded by renowned Zen monk Thich Nhat Hanh. Through interviews and beautiful cinematography, we get to understand mindfulness and how it impacts the monks. We can witness the tranquility and discipline of monastic life, and gain an appreciation for how powerful mindfulness can be.

The movie also dives into larger spiritual themes. It shows us the impact of being in the moment and finding inner peace in today’s chaotic world. It encourages us to think about our own lives and think of ways to be mindful.

Walk With Me is inspiring us to have mindfulness in our lives. It reminds us that in this fast-paced world, we sometimes forget how important it is to be connected with ourselves and others. Don’t miss out on this fantastic experience that can change your life.

Can movies help us doubt our beliefs? Wild Country brings us on a thought-provoking journey and allows us to explore challenging teachings without judging.

“Wild Country” – Exploring Controversial Teachings

“Wild Country” invites viewers on an insightful journey of controversial teachings. The captivating storyline and compelling characters challenge societal norms and conventions. Through thought-provoking dialogue and visuals, this movie encourages critical thinking about complex issues. It is meticulously crafted to evoke contemplation and discussion.

To truly appreciate the significance of this cinematic experience, approaching the film with an open mind is essential. Through mindful practices, such as meditation or self-reflection, viewers can gain a deeper connection with the themes presented in “Wild Country.”

Ultimately, this movie offers more than entertainment. It provides an opportunity for personal growth and encourages viewers to question their own preconceived notions. “Wild Country” serves as a catalyst for critical thinking and striving for knowledge and understanding.

Pop Culture Films with Philosophical Themes

Pop culture films with philosophical themes offer a unique blend of entertainment and introspection. They combine popular cinematic elements with deep philosophical undertones, captivating viewers while also making them think about life and existence. These movies explore thought-provoking ideas and concepts, prompting people to reflect on their beliefs and values.

The characters in these films often grapple with moral dilemmas, existential questions, and the search for truth. By telling stories, they delve into fundamental human experiences and universal concepts like love, identity, purpose, and reality. Through compelling performances and dialogue, the movies invite viewers to embark on a journey of self-reflection and philosophical exploration.

What makes these films so intriguing is their ability to mix entertainment with intellectual depth. While they keep audiences entertained with gripping storylines and stunning visuals, they also get them to question their assumptions and think about life’s big questions. By combining popular culture elements with philosophical inquiry, they engage a variety of viewers and spark conversations on philosophy.

One of the most iconic examples of a pop culture film with a philosophical theme is “The Matrix.” Released in 1999, this movie entwines action sequences with profound examinations of reality, free will, determinism, and the nature of existence. Its mesmerizing storyline and groundbreaking visual effects have prompted people around the world to contemplate the nature of reality and the power of our choices.

Experience mindfulness and entertainment at the same time with pop culture films featuring philosophical themes for a truly enlightening cinematic journey.

Conclusion

In the conclusion, we will see how embracing mindfulness at the movies can enhance our cinematic experience. We will also find further resources and recommendations to deepen our understanding of the intersection between meditation and cinema. So, let’s dive into the final part of this article and discover how mindfulness can transform the way we engage with the movies we love.

Embracing Mindfulness at the Movies

Mindfulness is essential when watching movies. It enables individuals to totally immerse in the moment and connect to the film more deeply. With mindfulness, viewers can enrich their experience, as well as gain self-awareness, better focus and stronger emotion connection with the characters and story.

Meditation before the movie can be a powerful way to relax and concentrate. This mindful approach heightens one’s appreciation of the aesthetics, narratives, and underlying messages in films.

There are mindful screenings around the world which show the positive impact of combining meditation and cinema. In Toronto, the Quiet Time Program offers guided meditation before a film screening. This program provides a time for reflection and self-discovery while enjoying cinema.

In Jakarta, Indonesia, a partnership between Riliv and a film screening also offers a meditation session. It helps release stress and reach a peaceful state. People reported feeling clearer, more relaxed, and having a deeper emotional connection with the film after incorporating mindfulness.

Mindfulness during movies allows us to connect with our own emotions through cinema. It can also foster personal growth and self-reflection while indulging in the art of storytelling.

Further Resources and Recommendations

Individuals interested in exploring the connection between mindfulness and cinema have plenty of resources and recommendations. These resources help understand the relationship between meditation and movies, plus provide guidance on incorporating mindfulness while watching films.

1. Mindful Film Reviews and Analysis: Websites, blogs, and podcasts offer thoughtful film reviews and analysis from a mindful perspective. They delve into themes, symbolism, and underlying messages of movies, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
2. Mindfulness Meditation Apps: Numerous meditation apps offer guided mindfulness practices tailored for movie viewing. These help cultivate present-moment awareness while watching films, allowing full engagement with the story.
3. Mindful Viewing Guides: Organizations create mindful viewing guides for specific movies or genres. These provide prompts and questions to observe thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations throughout the film, deepening one’s mindfulness practice.
4. Books on Meditation and Cinema: Several books explore the intersection of meditation and cinema. These offer insights on how films can evoke mindful states in viewers, understanding the potential benefits of combining these practices.
5. Film Festivals With Mindfulness Programs: Certain film festivals include dedicated mindfulness programs. These include screenings followed by discussions or guided meditations related to the films. Attending these events offers communal engagement with both mindfulness practices and cinema.
6. Online Communities: Joining online communities focused on mindfulness or cinema connects with like-minded individuals who share similar interests. These communities often provide recommendations for mindful films, discussions on mindful viewing techniques, and access to resources related to meditation and cinema.

For further resources and recommendations, individuals can explore these different pathways to deepen understanding of mindfulness and cinema.

FAQs about Meditation And Cinema: Mindfulness At The Movies

What is the purpose of the “Quiet Time” program?

The purpose of the “Quiet Time” program is to provide a moment of refreshment and relaxation in a world filled with distractions, work burnout, and stress. It aims to promote mindfulness at the movies.

How are the “Quiet Time” sessions scheduled?

The “Quiet Time” sessions are scheduled on Sundays to help individuals recharge before the upcoming week.

Who leads the guided meditation during the “Quiet Time” sessions?

Moustafa Abdelrahman, a mindfulness teacher from Toronto, leads the guided meditation during the “Quiet Time” sessions.

What is the recommended practice to fully immerse oneself in the “Quiet Time” session?

It is recommended to leave phones at home to fully immerse oneself in the “Quiet Time” session.

What is the goal of the meditation session during the movie screening event?

The goal of the meditation session during the movie screening event is to help the audience acknowledge their problems and bring them back to their breathing rhythm, promoting a sense of calm and focus.

What is the purpose of mindfulness in movies according to the author of the article?

According to the author of the article, mindfulness in movies helps viewers understand their own feelings and promotes self-awareness. It can also provide thought-provoking themes and serve as a form of relaxation and distraction from chronic distractions.