What does having balance in life mean? What does it mean to
you?
Finding Life’s Balance has always been a constant in my
life. Depending on what stage of my life I’m in (new wife, new job, children,
empty nester, etc.) there are adjustments that have to be made. When I’m not
“in balance” then I try to figure out what can be done. Let’s explore the 3
areas that need attention.
Mind - are you
challenging yourself? Do you have a purpose or passion? Do you have a job that
keeps you on your toes? Or are you just trudging through the day? What can you
do to change the situation? Sometimes we feel trapped in our situation; whether
it’s a bad job, bad boss, long hours, unchallenging work, or boredom. Think
outside the box. Write down your thoughts. Talk to someone you trust. Talk to a
life coach or a therapist, if you feel stuck.
Body - are you
taking care of yourself? Do you feel sluggish, stressed, tired? Eating
healthier can have a huge impact on how we perceive the world, and how well we
handle things. Get rid of the sugar. Take a high quality supplement. Are you
sleeping enough? There are SO many side effects of not sleeping, that is a
whole other article. Are you moving? If you don’t have an active job, then take
time to move; walk, run, dance, take a class, swim, bike, something. Lift
weights. Stretch.
Spirit - This can
mean different things. I do believe that having an inner calmness and spiritual
life enriches the soul. Community and feeling connected are very important.
With the changes in families and technology, community has become an “option”.
We used to be more connected face to face with others than we are now. It’s
literally possible to go through a whole week without seeing another human.
Facebook doesn’t count! Text msgs, social media, webinars, online shopping have
all replaced our need for other humans. Unfortunately, this can translate into
feelings of depression, feeling alone, unimportant. Ways to re-connect: church,
classes, book groups, meetup.com.
10 things that balance life:
1. Finding a purpose or passion
2. Challenge your mind
3. Move that body
4. Get enough quality sleep
5. Cultivate friendships/relationships
6. Connect with community
7. Have some quiet time
8. Connect with your spiritual side
9. Contribute to helping others
10. Have some fun!
When I am “in balance” then I feel my best. I am taking care
of myself, I am helping others, and I have a purpose in life. I can get thrown
off balance by things that happen in my life, some are not in my control.
A sick parent? An ill
child? A job loss? A relationship issue? Many of these can make us feel out of
control. If you are in the middle of something like that, just do the best you
can to adjust and know that whatever “it” is, will work itself out no matter
how much worrying you do. I am not trying to minimize the trials and
tribulations of our lives; I’m just pointing out that there is a light at the
end of the tunnel.
I am probably preaching to the choir as the old saying goes
about balancing life. If you are reading this, my guess is that you are already
aware of the balancing act. My husband is one of those whose life is out of
balance, and he doesn’t even realize it. He works, works, works, and has little
time to connect with others and play, or plan for the future. What can we do
for our loved ones whose lives are out of balance? I make sure that he and I
get out of the house and go dancing or do something fun once a week. I also
make sure we take a vacation once a year. Any suggestions? I’d love to hear
them! Post below!
Namaste!
Julie
Namaste!
Julie
