This past year has been one of major changes for me and I’m not sure at what point it happened, but something clicked. Or maybe it was because I finally had a chance to watch a bunch of daytime television featuring a whole lotta self-help experts, but I see clearly now that it’s only when the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of your being are in alignment that you experience that feeling of peace and fulfillment.
Sayeth Martha: “Body + Soul in Balance.”
And that’s what I want.
The theme for Digital Sisterhood Month in December was “Creativity + Health = Fierce Living.” I mentioned to Ananda Leeke during my interview on her #DSMonth Radio Show that I felt so strongly that the “health” part of my Fierce Living equation was missing. Not only my physical health – which is a huge factor – but my mental health too. I’m craving a feeling of being centered and present and body strong.
First Up: A Cleanse.
My body has been giving me cues for a little while now: immediate and intense headaches when I eat sugary foods (bye bye gummy bears, sniff). I learned to live with it because I enjoy savory foods more anyway. Hubby can have his Krispy Kreme donuts – give me cheese!! But then my digestive system started getting mad at me. It seems I need to cut back drastically on dairy and even wheat.
My sister – master of ALL diets (for no good reason because she is a runner and part-time vegan) – turned me on to the Blood Type Diet. Reading the profile for my blood type made a whole lot of sense. It talks about my personality: powerful and productive, but, a poor diet, lack of exercise and elevated stress can cause negative metabolic effects, sluggish thyroid activity and weight gain. Aha! I’m also pre-disposed for digestive issues. Now, I’m not sure if this so-called Blood Type Diet is like reading a horoscope – so broad that there is a kernel of truth in it for everyone – but it resonated with me.
This week I’ve started the Whole Living 2012 Challenge (yes, even though it’s 2013) and will be juicing and eating clean for the next month. I’m looking forward to getting back to basics and to putting my body back on track.
Second: A Fitness Schedule.
Yes. Again. For real. I had a consult with my doctor about my challenge of needing to find an exercise routine that I can do given my pelvis issue from pregnancy that has never resolved; it has to be low impact and can’t require huge leg movements. She recommended an ellipticyle and I’m eager to incorporate yoga after my awesome experience in the summer trying Bikram and after experiencing an amazing flow yoga session led by Kelly @ Higher Ground Yoga at my {re}Treat back in April. I’ve signed up for body conditioning and yoga classes at a studio near my house on the days when all the kids are in school.
Third: Quiet Time.
A previously elusive concept. I’m constantly going and going and going and never give myself a chance to have quiet moments with my spirit (sounds so Iyanla doesn’t it?) But I need this. We all do! I’m looking forward to 15 minutes a day without email, without errands, without cries for ‘Mama’. Today I spent my 15 minutes filling in my reflections on yesterday in my new discovery journal {a lovely gift from my lovely friend Savena!}
Apparently my well-being is going to be a full-time job!
Oh how I would love quiet time. But honestly, if I had quiet time during the day I’d probably fall asleep. I am definitely sleep deprived. I spend too much time running around throughout the day and more time staying up late at night trying to get a jump on the next day.
Lemme tell ya, my personal well being is totally a full time job. Eating healthy and exercising regularly definitely takes up more time than not doing those things, and it’s really frustrating. I have to keep reminding myself that I’m doing those things for the long run !