Hi there, beautiful friends.
As many of you know, the past 4-6 months haven’t been the easiest for me or my partner, Aaron. After “thinking” we were doing quite well, we learned we had actually been scammed out of our life’s savings. Read more about that here.
When it happened, Aaron and I both reflected that we’d probably be grateful for the turn of the events later on. And now, we are. But, that doesn’t mean the way hasn’t been without its hardships or troubling times.
Personally, I’ve had to completely re-invent myself and learn to fall in love (again) with myself. This meant shedding so many layers of who I “thought” (there we go again, the trouble with thinking) I was. Stripped down to the mere presence/energy of who I am, I could start building myself and our new life anew.
At times, it’s been hard. But even in those moments, I’ve never been alone. For that, I am incredibly grateful. I’ve had Spirit with me the whole time, whispering truths of purpose and leading me to understand why everything happened as the way it did. I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to have so many friends and family members supporting Aaron and me throughout this time. I do not think we could have made it without you all.
I’m reflecting on this bit because I finally feel inspired to write again — specifically, about my personal journey. I know that what we’ve gone through has the potential to help others, which is why I’d like to relive into a few of the daily practices I turn to when I don’t feel centered or in a “happy” state. Note: I’m not saying you have to be happy all of the time, but if you suffer from anxiety/depression, then this advice is definitely for you.
1) Get Outdoors!
Nature makes me incredibly happy. That’s why it’s one of the first places I go when I’m feeling overwhelmed, troubled, or tired. The negative ions in the forest or near a creek lift my spirits and help me feel energized. When I meditate by a tree or in the dancing grass, I’m able to “let go” of all I should be or should be doing. There, I find peace. We are nature, which is why I suggest you find a safe space outdoors you can spend time in when you need to ground and regroup.
2) Drink lots and lots of water
When we’re going through something — whether it’s mental, physical, emotional, or spiritual, you can bet there will be purging of some sort. Usually, at least I’ve found from my own experience, much of that is energetic. But when something emotional/energetic releases, there will be a physical response, as well. It’s a curious phenomenon, and I’m still getting a grasp on it. Being hydrated helps will all forms of release, as it allows the body to “hum” on a higher level and for physical toxins to be released more easily.
3) Spend Time with Those I Love
Most of my life, I pushed people away because I didn’t think I was worthy of love. Curiously, that’s actually what my name (Amanda) means: “worthy of love”! I’ve recognized this truth and am actively working to integrate it into my experience. I’ve found that the more I follow this exciting, loving feeling of being loved, the healthier I am in mind, body, and spirit. That’s why I’m suggesting you spend time with those people you love, and who love you back. Love is the ingredient for healing. The world can be a harsh place and that’s why we need a tribe. Being around people who surround you with good energy will help revive your spirits and encourage you to keep going. That’s what matters. Just don’t forget to offer the same in return when they need it!
4) Move My Body
Endorphins are lovely. But, so is a healthy, functioning body, flowing lymph, and a clear digestive system. That’s why I make a tendency to move my body — especially when I’m feeling “low.” When stuff gets stagnant in our system, we can sink even deeper into feelings of regret or remorse. When we exercise, sweat purges toxins from the system, purifies the organs, and can even help us become more energized. From personal experience, I always feel recharged and ready to give life another go when I go on a nice trail run. I’ll tell you a secret — I feel extra vibed up when I listen to classical or soundtrack music. Stuff that gets my brain flowing (versus, telling me how to feel and think, etc…) encourages my being to realign.
5) It’s all about Gratitude!
Yes, sometimes life poops on you. And when that happens, it’s okay to feel sad, angry, hurt, abused, abandoned, etc… You have to feel these emotions because feeling them is what allows you to give the root cause of behaviors that lead to experiences that cause these emotions to be pinpointed. But, once you have done the work and recognize where you might have gone wrong in the past (and have adopted new ways of living or thinking that serve you), move on and be grateful. Be grateful that you are alive! Be grateful that you have a functioning, working body! Be grateful that you can read — some people still can’t, or don’t even have an education. Be grateful you have people in your life who love you. Be grateful you have a job, or that you have enough food to eat, or that you have an idea of who you want to become in the future.
Our natural state of being is gratitude, happiness, and love. When you prioritize these feelings, your life will change in magical, unexpected ways. Getting to that place can be hard, however, which is why I shared the 5 healthy habits I turn to when I need a little extra boost of inspiration. Hopefully, this list inspires you. Please comment your thoughts below! Until next time,
Mandy
