Transformation: Rising Like the Phoenix

Image Source: INSTAGRAM/SHEETHALKRISHNA

Greek Mythology tells the legend of the Phoenix (an immortal bird) that bursts into flames, dies, and is reborn by rising from the ashes of its predecessor - a transformation if you will (2022). Today, I will offer suggestions about this topic (I briefly mentioned last week) on how we can improve our position in life, like the Grinch and the Phoenix. Our wellness journey is rooted in the mind-body-spirit paradigm.

Mind

It is no secret to those who know me or have followed these blog posts that I received therapy for numerous occupationally related post-traumatic stress injuries during a 25-year career in the fire service. I encourage anyone struggling to take the first courageous step from behind the shadow of the stigma associated with mental health issues.

In addition to therapy(that assists us at the psychoemotional level), what else can we do to keep our minds active, young, and engaged in the present moment? Things worth exploring are meditation, art/drawing(to include adult coloring books), crossword puzzles, singing, dancing, gardening, reading, and board games - the list is endless. Anything that brings the mind to a center of calm is beneficial. Find your path and walk the walk.

Body

With limited time (and sometimes resources), nurturing our bodies is one of the most challenging areas to transform. This pillar requires accountability to oneself daily. In this hurried world with increasing responsibilities, eating fast or prepared frozen foods is more convenient, and physical exercise often falls by the wayside.

Start small when adjusting your nutrition and exercise regimen. For example, if you drink three cans of soda a day, begin to ween yourself by reducing the intake to two-and-a-half cans and replace it with water (then 2, 1 1/2, 1, 1/2, etc.) until you no longer miss this drink. Pack a healthy lunch for work that includes fruits, veggies, nuts (if no allergy), and seeds. It will take time to reduce these cravings, but it is well worth it. Keep a journal that includes entries for energy levels, stress levels, mood, and quality of life. It is important to note how stress affects the choices you make each day (something we may not be consciously aware of). Walking, gardening, and housework all count as exercise and may be a great place to increase your physical activity. If you need extra accountability - work with a fitness professional, nutritionist, or dietician as your wellness guide.

Image Source: Cooper Health

Spirit

The third element in the wellness triangle is the most subjective. Spirit can carry a different connotation across all demographics, such as God, Creator, the Universe, and Higher Self, as well as religious or non-religious meanings. How you nurture your spirit is a personal choice, as your journey is unique. A great way to strengthen this pillar is by finding a group of like-minded individuals who gather in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. The yoga community in which I teach and practice is one beautiful opportunity to strengthen and satisfy my spirit self. This discipline addresses the mind and body as well. I like to describe yoga as a meditation where the movement follows the breath like a seamless soliloquy. The best part is you can start where you are and work within your ability.

Transformation is deep work that will place obstacles in the way. When life becomes chaotic, return to the wisdom of Lao Tzu and the journey of one-thousand miles beginning with a single step. Like the Phoenix, we can rise with the ebbs and flows of life. Until next time -

Namaste,

Tim

References

Phoenix (mythology) (2022). Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phoenix_(mythology) On 12/6/2022.