Based on my reflection, and on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being optimal wellbeing), I would rate my physical wellbeing as a 9, my spiritual wellbeing as a 2, and my psychological wellbeing as a 5. My physical wellbeing is a 9 because I am in good physical health, I eat good whole foods, and I exercise about 90 minutes a day, six days a week. Physically I feel great. My spiritual wellbeing is a 2 because I just can't seem to find my spirituality. There are times I feel spiritual and connected, but most of the time I don't. My psychological wellbeing is a 5 because it is generally good, but I do have a panic disorder which I can't seem to overcome.
A physical goal for me would be to just keep doing what I'm doing. I might add more leisure time physical activity such as golf, tennis, or other sports. A spiritual goal is to simply find something that gives me that spiritual connection. A psychological goal would be to find out the root of my panic disorder and get it under control without medication.
To help me move toward my goals I could spend more time doing recreational physical activity, like ride a bike around town or play tennis with my daughter. To reach my spiritual goal will take more time. I think I will start taking yoga classes again and add some meditation. To reach my psychological goal will be the biggest challenge. I think I will begin counseling to see if I can figure out what causes me to have panic attacks. I'm not really looking forward to that, but I will give it a try.
I listened to the Crime of the Century, but I had a hard time thinking of things with the colors. I sort of lost my focus when emerald green came up. All I could think of was the Emerald City from the Wizard of Oz. I liked the Journey On activity much better.
Tell me what you think.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
It sounds like you are off to a great start. Defining your goals and being aware of problem issues is a huge step in the right direction.
ReplyDeleteI like your version of physical activity, I forget it can be something leisure or recreational, I always think I have to "work out". I would enjoy a canoe trip or a quiet bike ride with my husband. I have anxiety and depression issues. I feel pretty good right now, but I know a dark day may be hiding around the bend. I have been seeing a therapist, who has been helping me connect my behavior with my perspective of my problems. He is big on "awareness" to be aware when you feel something that needs a reality check. It is nice to just talk to someone without being shut out also, my husband is not always the best listener. I think seeing a counselor is a good idea, it may also help with your spiritual connection issues. Your spiritual side may be blocked by something from your past, I know I have a huge problem with "surrender" because I dont feel in control. I guess the point is that I am not in control...
I hope to work in occupational therapy within the mental health field someday and I believe your activities to work on your physical and psychological goals would help patients get motivated to make changes in their lives.
Hi Amy. Honestly, I find it quite overwhelming to keep a balance in my life. It sounds like you are doing well and have set some good goals for yourself. This should help with clients as well. Knowing is half of the battle. I like incorporating leisure activities as it is something you can share and enjoy together while being active. I see that you are also a motorcycle rider! Is that a Sportster? I also work out regularly and enjoy it. I think maintaining a balance in our lives will set a good example for future clients, as if they see a nutrition professional not in good health, it may be harder to take them and their advice seriously. I also liked the Journey On exercise better. Best wishes to you and getting past your obstacles. You can get there, I believe it. :)
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeleteI wish I had your dedication to physical fitness. Running my own business and going to school leaves little time for me to squeeze exercise in. My goal is to do better in this area because I know it will be good for me.
Spirituality takes time for some individuals. Don't forget that there are many aspects to spirituality. It is not just about going to church. Meditation may be a good way to start. For me I had to turn inward. There were too many distractions on the outside but when I began to look deep within myself I found such clarity.
As for your panic attacks, I was fortunate that my husband helped me to see what was contributing to my attacks. Much of it stemmed from events that happened to me in my childhood. Once I faced those demons and decided that they would not control my life any longer, I did not have them as frequent or as intense. When I realized what the tiggers were, I could have kicked myself for letting them control me. You will find a way to get them under control. Remember a positive attitude is the first step!
The following is my feedback for your health strategies noted:
ReplyDeleteA. Physical - You are doing great here. It is great that you are also adding leisure time physical exercise. In addition to your exercise routine, I would recommend “Kundalini Yoga” that is very much like low level Pilates. This also works on the glandular system, and can help you with your breathing.
B. Spiritual - You might find that joining spirituality related study group to be very helpful. The Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.) Search for God groups are a good place to start. They have group contacts everywhere in the world (its main theme is liberal Judaea Christian, but all world faiths can join in and you are never required to convert… just study, pray and meditate. This group mainly concentrates on the “consciousness level” vs. dogma.)
C. Psychological - You are wise to take your time on finding solutions to stabilize your mind and stress. In reference to finding a good counselor, it might be best to talk to your physician first. Then, start out with a physical examination to make sure that there is not something else going on that is causing your panic attacks. Too, you could consider seeing a certified natural health therapist, who does reflexology, cranial sacral or energy work. Sometimes people have imbalances that can be alleviated from these types of treatments. These imbalances can be the cause of physical or emotional trauma. You could also try “affirmation therapy.”
It is good to continue to seek new health approaches. If something does not work, then you can always move on to a new avenue. I can, certainly, relate to everything that you are going through.
So, I can honestly say that 1) kundalina yoga, 2) spirituality groups, and 3) natural health regimens can provide profound healing. However, it is best to talk to your physician first in reference to your physical health to make sure that you are not suffering from an actual physical disorder. I would recommend all of this to my future clientele as well. You are doing great… keep on this path and you will get to where you want to be, while learning new things (always) along the way.
In health,
Maria Wey
Reference Suggestions
Edgar cayce's a.r.e. of the pacific northwest: Association for research and enlightenment. 2010). Retrieved May 30, 2010 from http://www.arepnw.org/studyWA.html
Is kundalini yoga dangerous? (2010). Retrieved May 30, 2010 from
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxcbH9329RE
Kundalini yoga. (2010). Retrieved May 30, 2010 from http://www.raviana.com/
Kundalini yoga for beginners & beyond. (2010). Retrieved May 30, 2010 from
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU7C2OFazz0
Naturopathy. (2010). Retrieved May 30, 2010 from
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/naturopathy-000356.htm
Added Note:
ReplyDeleteIf the "Crime of the Century" Meditation did not work so well for you, I would not push it just yet. I would work on other ones that are not quite as in depth as this one, first. Remember, failure is only for those who give up.
Keep on and you will get there!
In health,
Maria Wey