What happens when you realize that you need more balance in your life? How do you know when you need balance? What does a life full of balance mean to you? I thought it would be a good idea to begin my first blog post with a little astrological spin, being that we are now in the month of Libra. According to astrology, Libra is one of the three air signs (fellow air signs are Gemini and Aquarius) and is ruled by the scales. If you know of a Libra like myself, we are constantly balancing many aspects of our lives, and sometimes battling with our indecisiveness and the desire for perfection and contentment. On another note, we are determined to always weigh and appreciate the silver lining in every situation, even the most challenging ones. I am in no way speaking for all Libras; I’m just sharing my opinion.
This past Saturday I visited a store dedicated to metaphysical holistic and health practices in my hometown. If you are familiar with East Meets West or Garland of Letters on South Street in Philadelphia, then it’s very similar to these types of stores. I began to have a conversation with one of the owners about the importance of work-life balance from a spiritual, emotional, mental and physical level.
During my visit, the owner told me that he wants me to bring more moments of quiet time and meditation back into my life. He sensed that I was doing too much to the point where I barely had time to focus on myself and my own well-being — that a lot of my time was spent caring and catering to others and not myself. In order to avoid burnout, it was imperative that I begin developing my own spiritual, mental, emotional and physical practice for my own health and wellness. The owner said, “Take 15 minutes each day for yourself, perhaps once in the morning, and once at night before you go to bed. Put a sign on the door letting your husband and daughter know that mommy is busy, she’ll be with you in 15 minutes, please do not disturb. ”
I heeded his message and excitedly started meditating again, and even taking nature walks by myself (with my family also on separate days). My quiet time to myself equals about 30 minutes each day and does not include my exercise routine. Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, or reading a few chapters a day from a favorite book, or learning a new hobby, it’s so important to take time out for yourself as this helps to restore balance in one’s life.
Sometimes we get so caught up in our careers and jobs, and daily routines of school/work, financial pains/gains that we lose sight of what is really important. Having a clear heart and mind with no worries or focus on, “what am I going to do tomorrow” is a major key to having balance in one’s life. I have found that restoring and incorporating meditation works for me in order to find balance in my life. What methods do you use to promote balance in your life? Feel free to share below in the comments section. I can’t wait to hear your ideas!
