What’s NOT in the Vlog…
Since I recorded this Vlog, life has been incredibly tough on a personal/family level – illness for several folks has reared its narsty head to the point that we’re dab-hands at the old A&E routine.
It’s important that I’m open and honest about this because I’m also on a journey. What I learn and share about moving through life will, I hope, help others navigate their own situations…
I’ve managed it pretty well, but not in all situations… I’m a Soul with a human body and mind, after all! And I am learning to embrace my vulnerabilities.
A pretty horrible encounter revealed that my Ego/Mind had moved into Victim Consciousness followed by guilt and shame – which there was no need to be feeling. In the past I would have disintegrated into this feeling, but now I know it is a warning sign that means: step out, gather support, and only focus on one tiny step at a time, or none at all.
This kind of incident happens very rarely now. My journey of self-discovery means I am more aware of what is happening – I can usually catch it but this time I experienced a different kind of perceived threat.
At these times my mind clicks into old patterns of fear, and my body is producing far too many stress hormones which then produce involuntary reactions – the ones that can cause you to do things you wouldn’t normally do, overthink, make your heart pump, steal your sleep and appetite, and run to the loo more often than normal – I also get Vertigo. It’s my body’s over-achieving way of “protecting” me. When I am aware that this is happening I work to balance it out by letting mind and body know we’re ok… even when I don’t feel like it, there are things I can do.
The first: Rest and Reset.
Now, of course, I couldn’t rest ALL the time, but I took every tiny opportunity. I ate well and went to bed early (even though I didn’t feel like it). When your emotional and physical energy levels are depleted, you can recharge them, even in small ways because it essentially reprogrammes the mind from fear and worry into peace and love. And problems are far easier to deal with in the latter state of mind.
I also turned to meditation, uplifting music, and fun films – yes, we totally started watching Christmas films! This gentle physical and mental input enables the Ego/Mind to settle down.
How do you find out what works for you?
It’s all a process of self-discovery and transformation. Quick and easy ways are those I’ve mentioned:
- Gather support – yes, you can ask. Even if it’s a “no” it’s not personal and you can ask someone else until you get the support
- Eat well – aim to get fruit, veg and plenty of water into your system
- Rest – if you’re having trouble sleeping, guided meditations or binaural beats for sleep can help. At the very least stop doing #AllTheThings and lie quietly
- Fill your mind with gentle positivity – the meditations, music, comedies, etc.
- Exercise – a walk is great!
Around three years ago I decided to kick off the day by listening to a meditation on Insight Timer (see my blog on it here) before I get out of bed. It works wonders.
I also spend the last few moments of my shower saying the following, and feeling each word:
“I am love, I am light, I am joy, I am peace, I am happiness, I am safe, I am secure, I am loved.”
Again, this is Science and Soul in action – reprogramming my neural pathways (brain-box) and grounding myself in the present moment (Soul).
Even if my day doesn’t go how I hoped it would, even if I don’t feel it, I am able to bring these things to mind – because I do it every day – and know that it won’t always be this way.
Gather In Support
These days I reach out for support in very different ways. If I don’t feel I can handle something, support might look like:
- Asking friends or family for help, advice, or just a hug
- Taking time away from work – I no longer allow panic at losing the money / getting behind / letting the side down because a short break will prevent a much longer break or worse!
- Calling my kid’s pastoral teachers to let them know we’re struggling and seek support
- Managing the expectations of those around me by being open and honest about the situation – there is no room for guilt or shame at my table … even though they have a go!
- Reaching out to my Coach and seeking wisdom where I may not be able to see the wood for the trees, or need ideas on practices or strategies to move through the situation – I firmly believe that every good coach has a good coach, and I know mine has too!
There are lots of ways I’m here for you if you need me. Do join us in the Facebook Group: Awakening Transformation – a safe and supportive space for those who are on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, and/or if you support others with their own journey.
It’s a place for connection, inspiration, encouragement, and up-to-date information on coaching and mentoring opportunities.
Love & light
Jx