By Martha O’Regan
“What do I do when...?” This seems to be the most common question I receive from clients who have decided to try a different approach to their health and well-being.  They are interested in the energetic version of common everyday experiences such as a disagreement with a partner, a sudden financial crunch, or the drama of a middle school daughter. Even as we learn how to live in harmony in difficult situations, strive to do the right thing and live spiritually and healthfully, we still have to raise our children, maintain our homes, pay our taxes, go to the grocery store, try to get 6-8 hours of sleep.  Oh, and find a little fun in there. So, how do we move through a 24-hour period with the inner peace, courage, and divine guidance that we all strive to achieve without having a nervous breakdown or a headache in the process? It’s called self awareness and we all have access to it when we choose.
If you are one of those folks who feels like you are wearing a bullet proof vest all day, feeling squeezed while dodging all the stuff coming your way, then consider a new approach.  Likely you are experiencing anxiety, sleeplessness, pain, digestive distress, etc., because your body is in “survival” mode, even when you try to relax. Over time, your body will exhaust one or more systems resulting in disease.
Choosing a new approach is the first step as you begin the practice of tuning in, breathing, or shifting thoughts.  It is a constant practice because as humans being, we are in constant motion. Becoming aware and giving ourselves permission to trust the inner voice or conscience that we are all equipped with, allows us the ability to notice when it’s time to slow down, take a deep breath, or shift a thought.  It also helps to realize that every experience is there for us to learn as we evolve.
As we are bombarded daily with experiences that attempt to undermine our good intentions of living with integrity, be aware of the ego mind taking over, defending, or getting in the last word.  Have you noticed, this can create more upset and regret? By taking that extra moment to observe the situation rather than reacting, you can breathe,  and “feel” the best response.  This will often diffuse the situation enough to gain clarity and composure, allowing a more positive outcome.
No matter where you are in your spiritual journey, there is always something new to learn. Love yourself throughout this obstacle course called life, but most importantly, have fun with it. It’s only life and you get to choose how to exist in it, so Live Well ... Have Fun!