Thursday, September 13, 2012

Being kind to yourself.

I don't know if it has to do with nature or nurture, but I know that my typical way of solving problems or dealing with difficulty is to just work harder. As an amateur runner, it's a terrible trait: "My ankle is really hurting right now, I think I just need to press on a little farther and it will go away." "I can't figure out this situation, I think I'll just stay at work till six pm reading these articles about the topic until I figure it out." It is my natural tendency.

Thankfully, I have been becoming more aware of it and realizing that often I compound the difficulty by trying harder. I know, it sounds wrong to say that there is something not ok with "try try again." But in my case, trying LESS is much more difficult. I am learning to be kinder to myself, to listen to my body better, to say "it's enough" and let it go.

What I see happens when I loosen the grip and say "it's ok" is that a space opens up that allows a more human and real connection to happen. Whether the connection is between me and children, or me and the environment, or me and well, just me, it feels better. I feel better. Things around me feel better.

1 comment:

Maryam said...

Great thought. Your whole blog is fab actually! And providing me with lots of inspiration for setting up home ed with my kids, so thanks.
With regards running, have you tried running barefoot instead? Or with very thin flexible- soled shoes? You run much more naturally than in running shoes, landing on the front of your feet rather than your heel. You'll get far less pain and injury as the impact through your joints and muscles will be much reduced. Just thought I'd share and give something back :-)