Embracing a holistic approach to wellness means learning to see the strengths you already possess. All of us have challenges we continue to face and yes, many of us have experienced trauma. But if we remain stuck ruminating on the ways we’ve suffered and/or have previously let ourselves down, it becomes nearly impossible to make sustainable changes. We’re emotionally triggered over and over again when grief, fear, abandonment, betrayal and abuse are allowed to dominate the narrative of our lives. True healing will gradually begin to shift thought patterns—a necessary precursor to adopting new behaviors that prioritize self-care.
Start by paying attention to how you feel physically and mentally every day. Are there particular moments when the words overwhelmed, anxious, sad or angry would best describe your temperament? What would it take for you to feel better? If your initial thoughts are linked to food, think about why. Eating won’t change the underlying source of any negative emotion. It’s a temporary balm; not a well of happiness.
But joy is rarely as far removed as we may think. Five minutes of uninterrupted, quality time with the dog is often my gratitude reminder for the life I get to live now. One in which I am safe, supported and surrounded by love. It took a long time to get here, so I protect it fiercely by listening to what my body and mind really needs. Yoga, journaling, prayer and running are all examples of daily doses of kindness to myself that keep me rooted in the present rather than trapped in the prisons of the past.
I also permit myself to take breaks from the news, social media and even pessimistic friends during those times I’m struggling to see the good. This happens far less frequently than it used to, thanks to diligently tending to my mental health just as much as achieving any external fitness benchmark.
What’s one way you could make this week more joy-filled for you and/or another fellow TOPS member? Look forward to reading any ideas you’d like to share as comments below.
Hope you woke up with a smile this Wellness Wednesday!
—Rachel
By Janet Long February 8, 2023
Thanks for this motiovational info. Thats what I needed to hear. It”s hard to be positive in a negitive world. Thanks again and keep up the good work.
By Rachel Werner February 9, 2023
THANK YOU & you too, Janet. You can do this…& already are!
By Robin O February 9, 2023
I appreciate your uplifting thoughts, Rachel! I’m definitely guilty of turning to food when I feel overwhelmed. I should try taking a 10-minute break and reading one of the books in my want-to-read pile, instead of letting anxiety wash over me.
By Rachel Werner February 9, 2023
I’m a voracious reader as well, Robin. So I think your suggestion of diving into a book you’ve been wanting to read is a GREAT suggestion.
By Phyllis Stone February 10, 2023
enjoyed this newsletter. Will use if to part of our program.
Phylllis Stone
Fl-0047
By Rachel Werner February 10, 2023
Glad to hear both, Phyllis!
By Brenda May 19, 2023
Sometimes taking a few moments for ourself by reading a few minutes or giving a few moments of attetion to a pet is enough to get the mind away from that hungry feeling.
By Arlene February 9, 2023
This was a very good article. We all need to take time to try to put Joy back in our life I know I sure do.
By Rachel Werner February 10, 2023
Really appreciate the positive feedback you took the time to post, Arlene.
By Linda S Richardson February 10, 2023
I needed this little pep talk or positive reminder. Thanks, looking for a new day with positive thoughts.
By Rachel Werner February 10, 2023
Keep it up, Linda! Somedays will be easier than others, but that’s true for all of us.
By Karen Tinlin February 12, 2023
I love how you expressed being trapped in prisons of the past. Wow. That’s a great way to describe how painful events of the past can destroy your joy in the present. I recently discovered that I can stop an anxious feeling creeping back in by sitting for just a few minutes and very warmly holding my own hands. I think of something or nothing depending, but I always can literally feel a calmness come over me. So that’s how I keep my joy when I feel it slipping.
By Rachel Werner February 13, 2023
Sounds like you’ve found a mindfulness technique that works really well for you, Karen. Appreciate you taking the time to describe it here, as it may be helpful to another member of our community.
By Lisa Adams February 15, 2023
I like to do a mindfulness walk. I walk outside and spend a few minutes focusing on a sense .such as all the things i hear. then switch to another sense and do all 5.
By Rachel Werner February 15, 2023
Lisa,
What I really like about the mindfulness technique you described is how accessible it is = can be done just about anywhere, at anytime. THANKS for posting.