I came to a big realization today, I am totally out of balance right now. My mental, emotional, physical and spiritual states are a mess. Some of them more than others, but all in all things aren't looking good.
A few examples: I'm over weight and out of shape, have been for months now. I can't seem to motivate myself to do the things that need to be done for the new business. I'm finding it hard to concentrate and would much rather get lost in a game or a book. I'm getting upset over little things that really aren't a big deal. It's easier to lay down and shut my eyes then keep moving forward.
I know that part of how I'm feeling comes from being affected by Season Affective Disorder or SAD. I've never been diagnosed with it, but the symptoms have been there for a long time and as the days get shorter, it's harder for me to function.I fight with this every fall and winter.
It also doesn't help that my first wife's health started going downhill around this time of year and that eventually led to her death in 2007. Those memories and emotions are still there. While they are controlled most of the year, November through the end of Jan is tough.
There are things that I can do to help. I'm already on meds and they help a lot. The realization I had today will help too. It has already got me off my butt and I did some yoga this afternoon, (And the yoga cleared my head and made me feel good enough to write this.) Also, I need to spend more time outside in the sunshine. The best way to help with SAD is to be out in the sun. And when you live where sunny days are rare this time of year, you have to take advantage of those blue bird days, (To steal a term from my mountain days.)
So, how to get back in balance? The main thing I need to do is exercise, it all begins there. That will help me feel better in so many ways. Also, spend more time outside doing something I love, like photography. (By the way, my creative side isn't out of balance at all. It is working very well right now.) I know that meditation is a key too. I've used it in the past and it's always been a big help when I'm out of whack. I know what needs to be done. Now I have to do it.
Keeping myself in balance is very important, that's why I wear a balance Touchstone, it helps remind me how important balance is.
How about you guys, what are some things you do to help stay in balance?
Keeping a journal...enjoying my birds...but I have had to deal with a lot the past year and I still have trouble staying balanced...letting go of past hurts is hard, I am one of those people whose hurt really never goes away..especially when you loved a person and you spent a long time with them. but you still have to go forward and take baby steps.
ReplyDeleteLosing a loved one like your wife, your Dad. That hurt never really goes away but we have to just remember their smile, hugs, and the wonderful memories we have.
But know that you have people that love you. sometimes reaching out to someone you haven't talked to in a long time like your mother...God I wish I could call mine. It might seem not a good thing to do to help yourself...but talking to someone that doesn't know what is going on, is what we need sometimes.
Oh yes I am rambling on...but I am talking to someone I care about very much and I truly want you to be happy and well balanced in this life...nature itself is a gift to you...your way of capturing it ,should fill your heart with joy...it asks nothing in return just giving joy back! Your words you are able to express yourself with is another gift to you...so get out there and walk your butt off. and you will be back to your wonderful not normal self. You have a lot to give ....give it!!!