The Self Improvement Game

The idea of self help and personal growth have been widely marketed especially in the last 25 years.  Improving who you are through a variety of diets, exercises and spiritual growth techniques seems like a good starting point.  Our society follows along with TV shows like The Doctors and Oprah Winfrey many of these people present profound ideas have achieved great things in their lives. Things which are worth striving for.  On the other hand, our society encourages us to eat highly processed packaged foods, work to the point of exhaustion to achieve things that are no longer considered financially feasible. For most of us it is no wonder we have lost sight of who we are. Constantly  seeking a moral compass to guide us to being better. Which may mean healthier, stronger, happier, more productive, ect. Depending on your own goals.

A more balanced lifestyle may seem unachievable.  I know I have struggled with maintaining balance every day. I didn’t always stick to the the routine was is best for me. I may have worked late and had stresses related to my work. I didn’t always make the healthiest choices and exercise every day.  I got upset and yelled or said things I didn’t mean.

More recently I have learned to create boundaries for myself which means not making commitments that get in the way of my personal well being. I say no to working late and circumstances that don’t honor my highest good. I have treated my body with such mindfulness that choosing not to eat healthy just makes me sick. Working out feels so good that I usually do it and feel so much better when I do. If I skip it it’s because my body needs to rejuvenate.

Nobody is perfect. Through years of practice and intention I have trained myself to treat myself as a priority which means sticking to the routines that I know I need and listening to my body. I still give myself a pass to do something to stay up late or indulge in something sweet. As I have stated in the past, allowing these breaks has created a sense of comfort in returning to the regular schedule.

Having dedicated almost 20 years to learning and practicing meditation and yoga the benefits just keep giving. The more time I spend in mindfulness the easier it is for me to remember that each reaction is a choice. By reacting I am engaging and not every situation can be resolved. I practice holistic healing, energy work and live outside the accepted norms because that’s what works for me. I’ve tried and failed, liked and disliked many methods, tools and exercises I found the ones that resonated with me. I hope you do too!

Updated 12/29/20