Year: 2008

Posted on

Back to Work

Now that the holidays are over and we’re getting back into the normal swing of things, let’s remember to stay grounded and resist the temptation to dip into fight or flight mode when everyday challenges arise.

My belief is that many of us sub-consciously put our bodies into fight or flight mode to get the adrenaline boost it provides. The road before us gets bumpy and we start catastrophizing in our heads while breathing shallowly, or worse yet, forgetting to breathe at all!

Fight or flight mode is a huge energy drain and should only be invoked when true danger is present – being late to a meeting or having a disagreement with a loved on is not life threatening and need not be treated as such.

This year can be different. Let’s watch our thoughts when we hit a snag and remember to breathe. You can consciously avert this “stress bath,” as I called it a few blogs back, but it requires mindfulness and a desire not to live on excess cortisol and adrenaline, both of which cause stress related illnesses, weight gain, aging and overall impairment of mental and physical functioning.

As we breathe deeply and remember to think realistically, we will experience more enjoyment and energy in the great year of 2008!
Posted on

It’s the first day of the New Year – 2008 is a year of absolute richness. It’s a year to enjoy each other completely, to savor every bite of food, to notice the vibrant colors that surround us, and to relax deeply into the present and feast on the abundant gifts contained in each moment.

We can only experience this amount of pleasure when we’re free of guilt. Guilt tarnishes the brilliance that lies in front of us, therefore, taking care of ourselves becomes a prerequisite for pure enjoyment.

To be completely guilt-free, look at how your choices affect your energy, not only in the present, but over the course of two or three days. Each time you’re at a crossroads trying to decide what to eat, or whether or not to exercise or clean your house, simply ask yourself, “Will ____ bind me in guilt, or free me inside, over the next couple of days?”

This approach to life is reinforcing and inspiring. It frees us from having to rely solely on will-power, which is often grueling and short-lived. Aside from the brief sting you’ll feel while walking away from that yummy plate of cookies, you’ll feel free.

May you enjoy the absolute richness of 2008 – Happy New Year!