Wednesday, December 28, 2016

...is the way you've always done things still serving your best life?

I've enjoyed intense, 'typical' exercise most of my adult life. It's been a stress reliever and contributed to my overall happiness. Genetically, resistance training with a bit of cardio is what is 'right' for me (proven with a genetic test). I'm much more drawn to a weight room than a marathon.

For many more months than I wish to admit I have been in pain that is progressing and limiting me in both stationary positions and when moving. Being an active person, this isn't cool. It's affecting my sense of health and well-being because it is limiting my yoga practice, workouts and ability to sit comfortably. 

Being holistically minded in my health approach, I have been trying body-based approaches to healing - massage, chiropractic, fascial release, physical therapy, and also consideration of my nutritional choices. Of late I have come to suspect a connective tissue disorder of some type so I've been marginally exploring other methodologies.

In another aspect of my life I have recently become interested in non-linear movement patterns - too much to get into, but as it relates to my pain... I believe that linear, repetitive positions and movements are hurting me. Status quo when it comes to yoga, 'exercise', etc... isn't enough for me anymore. It's limiting the overall benefit that movement can bring to my life - one that goes beyond a lean, strong body but also enhances an open heart and settled mind. In short, I want feel good.

This morning I spent more than an hour exploring a particular type of somatic movement - I feel so much better than I did when I went to bed last night and woke up this morning. So much so that I sent a message to one of the practitioners to say 'thank you'...and looked into training in this particular modality. I plan to commit to one particular session regularly for 2 weeks and see what happens to this long standing, progressive pain. 

I want and intend to feel good in my life - physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually and as I've alluded above...these aspects aren't mutually exclusive. They are connected, which is why it is important to me to feel healthy and balanced in my physical body. The recognition of linear movement has me wondering about linear thinking...I'm curious if I have blinders on and if that's limiting my self-awareness and personal growth in some way.

All of this to pose the question for you...is the way you've always done things still serving your best life? What would it be like to explore another way of doing, thinking, heck....maybe even believing? An exploration of new ideas, ways of being, movement patterns, nutritional choices, communicating - the opportunities are endless!

Pick one and give it a try...
Let me know how it goes.

~Y


Sunday, December 4, 2016

Life Change - Do you lean-in or turn-away?

I find myself in an edgy position as the year closes. My CVS position is dissolving. While I could 'blame' this on the industry I am fully aware of the energy that I've been emitting regarding my dissatisfaction with this aspect of my life...so, self-fulfilling prophecy? Maybe. Pharmacy has been a 'safe' livelihood for 23 years. I was able to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while raising two children as a single parent, to explore ownership as an independent pharmacist and to rely upon a steady income while I've explored my heart's desire of health and wellness. So I'm asking myself now...look for another pharmacy job? Jump into Wellness Pursuits full-time and trust that my knowledge, experience and passion will fuel the income needed to let go of pharmacy work? Go back to school?

I don't have the answer yet and I'm sure there will be a multitude of emotions to delve into and a few sleepless nights as I move through the experience. I share a bit of my story to ask YOU, when faced with a life change that scares the hell out of you and recognizing the choice to stay in your comfort zone or push into the edge of and sit in the midst of the unknown...what do you choose? How has it turned out? Do you have regrets? What did you learn in the process? I'm not looking for advice, just nuggets of experience that might inspire my process. 

Cheers to leaning into the edge with courage and faith~
Yvette