In today’s modern world, the average American is challenged by stress, weight issues, prescriptions, digestive problems, lack of energy, inadequate sleep, relationship problems, financial worries, hectic lifestyles, poor nutrition, and more.
How to get back on track? I love Deepak Chopra, MD’s advice to focus on three things each day: Movement, quality sleep and healthful nutrition.
It’s all part of self care, which is NOT the same as self-pampering. Rather, self care is a complete healthy lifestyle that also includes meditation, self-reflection, prayer, healthy and loving relationships and more.
It not only helps you remain calmer and less stressed, but self care can actually help you be more successful in all areas of your life. While pedicures and facials do trigger the relaxation response, self care not only keeps you rested, but also energetic and in balance. Even when stressed, you cope and make better decisions in all areas of your life, from your finances to your career and relationships—and more.
Two scientific advances give credence to the mind/body/spirit connection: Epigenetics, which means that our gene expressions are affected by our environment, lifestyle and disease state; and neuroplasticity, a term that refers to the brain’s ability to change and adapt as a result of experience, meaning you can hard-wire it to experience a healthy life through joy, love, and compassion.
BUT I HAVE NO TIME FOR MEDITATION!
Just take 10 minutes a day, sit quietly, observe your breath and feel your body. As Deepak Chopra says, you might also want to do a little self-reflecting with questions such as “who am I?” or “what’s my purpose?”
The idea of self reflection is that it opens the heart and triggers the mind into “synchronocity” or “meaningful coincidence.” When you self reflect, you are fully conscious, aware, see opportunities and act accordingly. Your mind and body is fully aligned with the laws of nature.
Enjoy this interview with Dr. Deepak Chopra and put your self care at the top of your “to do” list!
