Balance: one of the most highly regarded words of our current health movement. I feel cheesy bringing up an overly- hyped idea, but I do believe there is an authentic way to talk about it.
Runs while drinking champagne ... Calls it a healthy balance
The health of our bodies and minds are inextricably intertwined. Thus it is ignorant to think that we can neglect to care for the temples that house our minds and souls. They require micronutrients, periods of elevated heart rate, and lots of water; they demand rest, stretching, and calories. The molecules of food we consume are broken down and reconfigured into the ACTUAL CELLS OF OUR BODIES (wow). This means that we are literally composed of the substances we ingest- it makes me care deeply about the choices I make.
**takin' steps and scoops with six cartons on the dome **
However, I believe that this information can make us overly diligent. While it is true that each decision we make has some effect on us, our actual progress is determined by the sum of our actions over time. What if we worked to create a practice of habits that make us feel physically and mentally healthy? That bring us joy, energy, and fulfillment? To me, that sounds sustainable.
Let me tell you about what this looks like for me. I love the exhilaration of working out- give me all the endorphins! I eat mostly vegetarian and try to get in as many servings of plants as possible. I am obsessed with ice cream. I used to make it for a scoop shop, and now scout out local places wherever I go. I try to park with enough distance from my destination to get some extra walking in. Sometimes I take yin yoga classes that involve nothing more or less than deep, passive stretching. I smother my smoothies in peanut butter and my toast in avocado. I eat samples from farmer's market vendors and try bites of my friends' food. If it sounds good, I'll drink a dark beer (I love me a stout or porter) and enjoy the buzz.
I try to make choices that bring me happiness in mind and body. However, this does not mean that I exist in a state of perpetual self- acceptance. I falter and question, and my balance drifts towards the extremes. Sometimes it's all kale and sweat, and I drive myself into depletion; occasionally I'll have my cake and eat it too, and end up feeling rather sluggish. But there ARE days when I feel satisfied and healthy, and sore in a way that makes me proud. All of these days exist, and I move among them in a dynamic state of balance.
I believe in momentum. And I have found that the longer I spend seeking a higher vibration, the more driven I am to do so. Happiness begets happiness begets happiness... The more energy we put towards seeking our happy mediums and natural set points, the easier the journey becomes.
