So many times in our lives, we think we are “on our way”. Things are moving. We are moving.
Then, all of the sudden, things stop!
Where did my sense of direction go? Why don’t I know what to do? There has to be SOMETHING for me to do! Did I lose my purpose? Was I on the wrong track? What happened?!
A sense of panic comes in. When there is no action, we feel lost and perhaps even stupid or useless.
Our River of Life has reached a calm pool, and we’re busy freaking out! Sails go up and down. The Paddles come out, and we paddle on this side and that. New fangled motors are tested. Nothing moves. It’s like there’s an anchor on the boat, and we can’t see the chain to pull it up.
These moments, too, are opportunities. Those calm pools along the River of Your Life are equally as important and valuable. Life should not be white water rafting all the way through!
When we are in action, we feel useful and on purpose. These times of in-action are times when we can redefine and rebalance. They are times to refuel and rejuvenate.
The question becomes, “What do we do when we have nothing to do?”
Here are some places you can explore when you’ve reached one of those calm pools in Your River of Life.
Trust.
These silent times are exactly perfect too. What if you trusted that The Universe has everything under control?
Let’s take the analogy of planting and growing a garden. You prepare the soil by adding nutrients, clearing away the weeds, and making the rows or raised beds to plant your seeds. You pick the seeds you want to plant. A plan is made for which vegetables go where. The dirt is parted, and the seeds sprinkled. You gently cover over the seeds and begin to water.
For the next while, all you need to do is water, and pull the occasional weed that pops up. You don’t see any action or movement. Things are quiet for the time being, and yet, beneath the surface there are all kinds of unseen action!
The seed expands and pops open. A tiny little root begins to squirm its way through the dirt, sucking up all the incredible resources you worked into the soil, and drinking the life-giving water. Before long, its fingers begin stretching up, building up strength to pop through the surface and peak out at the sunlight.
Can you Trust that in these times of silence that the seeds you’ve planted with your thoughts are germinating like the seeds in your garden? Or will you rush around uncovering your seeds daily to see if they are growing, and preventing them from growing?
Trust that all is well. Gently water your seeds, and pull the occasional weed. Enjoy the sunshine and trust. The Universe does not stop he growth of the seeds in the Garden, and it does not stop the growth of the seeds you have planted either.
Nourish.
Use these times as opportunities to take good care of You.
Chances are, when things were moving you were so busy you were not doing those small things that keep you rejuvenated. “I don’t have time,” is often how you would put yourself off. Things were moving! How could you have time to exercise, eat right, or meditate?
As with the garden, those busy times were important, and those times of watering and patiently waiting are equally important.
These can be times to set up new habits of self-care. Here are some new habits you can add to your daily routine.
Meditation. Meditation does not need to take a full hour of your time. It can be as simple as sitting quietly for 5 minutes, and you can add an extra 5 minutes into your shower. There are many forms of active meditations, including walking meditations. Puzzles are wonderful form of meditation. Your focus is only on the puzzle, and all other thoughts move into the background.
Journaling. Journaling can be as simple as writing 5 gratitudes per day. You can write your intentions or desires. Write your joyful experiences. Gather affirmations and quotes that inspire you. Joy Journaling is a fun and creative way to use your Journal.
Exercise. This can be as simple as adding in a 10-30 minute walk each day. There are so many fun and creative ways to exercise. There are a variety dance classes offered. Gyms are offering cycling, kick boxing and much more. You can take up a martial art. There are also creative blendings of exercise forms being offered, such as Nia. Take this time to sample a few until you find one that is fun for you.
Nutrition. When you have more time available, you can get creative with your eating. You do not need to cook all day to get a quality meal. Sometimes taking the time to explore your grocery store or specialty shops in your neighbourhood can open up new creativity in your kitchen. Explore your library or local book store for cooking ideas. Take this time to find some quick and easy recipes you enjoy so when things do get moving again, you’re ready!
Life is like a River. There are times when the waters are flowing with speed, and there are other times where we come into the calm pools and can see the fish and plants growing on the bottom. Take the time to look into the pools. It’s so much more enjoyable than franticly paddling your canoe and missing all the beauty and joy.
Pull your paddle back in the boat. Stretch back and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. The River will speed up soon enough, and when it does, you’ll be full of energy and ready to go!
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Velma Gallant, “The Queen of JOY!”, is an author, international speaker and Lazer Clarity Coach. She hosts her highly acclaimed internet radio show, Welcome Changes Radio where she interviews exciting and dynamic guests such as New York Times best selling author, Neale Donald Walsch, Mike Dooley from “The Secret”, and many more. Velma coaches Executives and Entrepreneurs to lazer in on what’s vital to create and experience Joy-Filled Balance in their life and work. Velma can be contacted through her website, http://www.WelcomeChangesRadio.com.
