“Adversity is like a strong wind. It tears away from us all but the things that cannot be torn, so that we see ourselves as we really are. ” ~ Arthur Golden
How do you feel supported? How does your body support your weight? How does nourishment and exercise support your body? How do your thoughts support your mental well being? A good night sleep, healthy food, comfortable shoes, a shoulder to lean on, advice from a friend, financial security, and peaceful places ~ are all things we attract to feel supported.
As adversity arises in our lives we often feel unsupported. It is easy to drift outside of ourselves – to our partners, friends, co-workers, or family – and wonder why they aren’t supporting us in a way that meets our expectations, or faulting them for our feelings of unmet needs. In these moments, it is vital to look within and focus the energy that does support us, rather than that which does not. When we do this, we feed the abundance and grace that is always present. By accepting the circumstances that confront us and recognizing the foundations of support that are always accessible, we soften the moments of melancholy and discontent. We bring light into the dark.
Simply taking time for silence (the practice of mouna, in yoga) is one way to regenerate and support mental clarity. Taking a bath to release tension in the body and rejuvenate well being, is another. Remembering to listen to our present needs, while recalling all we are able to do to support ourselves from within, offers guidance in moving forward. Living a sane and healthy lifestyle supports our openness, and makes space for inner wisdom to arise.