Josh Dickson is a UK-based therapist, thought leader in the field of human potential psychology, and student of “flow,” the super-productive state of consciousness experienced by athletes and other high-performers.  Core to his practice is the idea of “mindfulness,” which is sought traditionally through gentle and voluntary techniques, like relaxation.  But in a series of recent articles, Dickson brings up a different approach, which he calls “forced mindfulness.” Forced in that this kind of mindfulness requires “conscious and intentional effort” to deal with intensity — sense of urgency — the risk of pain.

The other day Josh asked me, might barefoot running be a form of forced mindfulness?

I looked at him.  Considered the question.  Said I’d think about it. Continue reading “Forced Mindfulness – at the Roosa Gap Roller Coaster” →