We are all to often caught up in a fast moving lifestyle, that requires us to use other tools to switch off, fire up all cylinders, numb out, cope, survive. More often than not these tools we use are propelling us into an unhealthy and often unhappy groove that we get stuck in “the rat race. We are bombarded by consumerism and told we need more “stuff” to make our lives better, we need pharmaceuticals to overcome ailments caused by the lifestyle we are living, clothing to make us feel better about how we look, a bigger fancier car, etc.
However beyond all of that, sustainable happiness is achievable, it could be available to everyone, and it doesn’t have to cost you anything. Research shows that sustainable happiness comes from other sources.
Some of the most simple resources I use for myself and for my clients to help them see whats already available and are simply waiting for us to acknowledge and play upon. These are some alternative forms of tapping into the magic and medicine that is within each one of us. We always have natural and free ways to create balance and happiness that are actually in service to our own wellbeing, and can begin to heal old patterns at the same time. This is my own list that I use to keep me on track and to remind me of the gifts already available and present in life. Please feel free to make your own list that serves you and your highest well being!
1. GRATITUDE
Upon waking each day take time for gratitude by reflecting,
journaling, or simply reminding yourself of all that life provides you. A
remembering of how fortunate we are to have bodies that move and
the ability to breathe freely on our own, we have available food, the ability to
make choices in each day. This is a privilege, and one that many people do not
have. From this perspective we can only live a life of gratitude for all the
opportunities that lie before us!
2. MEDITATION…of course!
It’s completely free. And always available at anytime in any place. Sit
with yourself for 5 minutes or any amount of time in silence each day
and see what rises up. Don’t try and control your thoughts. Observe
your breath and be present to your sensations, thoughts, memories,
feelings and all the sounds around. The more you sit, the clearer you
become. Some days will be harder than others, just stay the course
and it will become easier. If needed use a mantra to help sink in. One
word that meets you where your at and has a positive up lifting vibe.
Repeat it over and over again, one breath at a time to quiet any
excess chatter.
3. COMMUNITY
Create a tribe! Resourcing people who are experienced in their field, guides that
help us traverse life, people who can hold space for us without
judgement. These relationships can be transformational and often will
have a big impact on your relationships with others and yourself.
Create a team of teachers you respect (yoga, meditation, philosophy,
nutrtion, etc.), healers, therapists, and anyone who you feel
connected to that can hold open space for you to express and
experience life as it comes. These people will reflect your
experiences back to you in a way that will allow you to see a different
perspective, possibly opening you up to a new place inside that
generates more peace of mind.
In my experience its best not to rely on friends and family for this resource. We often place to many expectations on what we think they can or should be doing for us.
4. MOVEMENT
Our bodies crave to be moved! Get up and dance around your house, do some
yoga, or any mindful movement that allows your body to release and express
itself. This allows you to connect with your body and get out of your head while
freeing up some stagnant energy.
5. SLEEP
We are a sleep deprived nation. Always to busy to slow down and take time to
rest. Indulge when you can in afternoon napping. Give yourself the gift of rest
whenever you can. Its free!
6. MINDFUL COOKING AND EATING
Choose foods that are healthy for the planet and your body! Preparing healthy
meals is a mindful practice that feels good and nourishes the body. Use this time
to be present about where your food came from, savor each mouthful, noticing
taste, smells, texture, sensations and how the body responds to each bite. Slow
down while you eat to appreciate the gifts on your plate!
7. TOUCH
Hugs and lots of them. Hug your friends, family, pets, and anyone who needs
one. Give your hugs out freely to those in need. These are conscious moments
of embrace for comfort, happiness, love, or connection. Hugs and cuddles will
help release all kinds of feel good happy hormones in the body.
8. HEALING THERAPIES
I love to get my hands in the dirt and garden. It is extremely therapeutic to me
and I am connected to the earth. That is one of my resources to ground, be in
touch with nature, and grow things that make me happy and healthy. However
this can be an extensive list so I encourage you to choose things that recharge
your batteries and make you feel connected to all beings everywhere. Healing
therapies can include massage, acupuncture, gardening, lying on the beach,
swimming in the ocean, a long walk, watching the sunrise or sunset, drawing or
painting. Whatever it is that makes your heart sing!