Optimal Wellness: Spiritual, Physical, Emotional BALANCE

Do you know what it takes for you to be at your best? What makes you feel amazing? What makes you feel like a million bucks, a superhero, a sexy siren, a superstar?

When we feel our best, we exist in a state of homeostasis or equilibrium. We experience optimal wellness.

ho·me·o·sta·sis
–noun
1. the tendency of a system to maintain internal stability, owing to the coordinated response of its parts to any situation or stimulus tending to disturb its normal condition or function.
2. a state of psychological equilibrium obtained when tension has been reduced or eliminated.

e·qui·lib·ri·um
–noun
1. a state of rest or balance due to the equal action of opposing forces.
2. equal balance between any powers, influences, etc.
3. mental or emotional balance; equanimity

Spiritual, Physical, Emotional BALANCE

Each person has different needs to meet her perfect state of balance. I am currently on a quest to reach my own. The beauty of it is that I know what I need—now I’ve got to make it happen. 😉 There are six elements that I need to reach equilibrium. Have a look at my list. Then make your own & get to work!

1. Nutrition (FOOD – FUEL)
When it comes to food, I have two main priorities: 50% (or more) raw and 90% (or more) organic. Eating raw is a challenge, but it is a worthwhile endeavor. Eating organic has gotten much easier over the past couple of years, but it is generally more expensive.

Despite the fact that a raw, organic diet can be more work and more expensive, for me it is 100% worth it! If you are educated about the food that you put into your body, you will understand why. If you have not done so yet, check out these documentaries: Food Matters, Food Inc., Super Size Me, and King Corn.

In addition to food, I also take vitamins/supplements every morning. I take: a multivitamin for women; two fish oil capsules; 1000 mg of Vitamin C; and two 500 mg, organic spirulina tablets.

2. Exercise (BODY)
My body craves movement. I am flexible and my body loves to be flexed. Stretching and yoga are critical to my body’s happiness. I’ve been majorly slacking in this area as of late and hope to get moving again soon. I will likely end up canceling my gym membership because I don’t use it. Instead, I am going to start walking on my lunch break (I work in a gorgeous area) and taking yoga class once a week near my house.

3. Meditation (MIND – HEART)
Meditation is critical to balance. Period. Even if you just take five minutes over a cup of tea in the morning or a few minutes before bed at night, it will make an enormous difference to your well-being.

During meditation your only goal should be to turn off your thoughts completely. This simple task will prove difficult at first, but with time your mind will grow more & more silent during your meditation practice.

4. Volunteering (SOUL)
Volunteering is extremely important to me. I have been so blessed in my life with kindness & generosity. Volunteering allows me to give back.

This month, Matthew and I are walking dogs at our local animal shelter.

5. Sleep (ENERGY)
Sleep is critical to happiness and health. Lack of sleep can lead to physical pain and depression. Without sleep, the immune system weakens and puts us at greater risk to illnesses like heart disease and Type 2 Diabetes. Lack of sleep negatively impacts physical growth, has been shown to contribute to obesity, prevents the body from healing, and impairs motor skills.

For me, sleep is the most critical element to happiness. Without adequate sleep, I am miserable. It varies from person to person. Personally, to “feel good” and perform (mentally, physically) optimally I need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep.

6. Creativity (ART)
Last but not least, to truly feel balanced & fulfilled, I must be creating. My art takes many forms: drawing, photography, writing, poetry, decorating my home, and so on. My brain is constantly swirling with beautiful images, thoughts, and ideas. If I am stifled and unable to create, I start to go mad. I need to let the beauty that seethes through my veins out into the light of day.

Maybe you express yourself through music, sports, film-making, or landscaping; but whatever it is, just do it. Creation is life. Life is creation.

Alright, now it’s your turn. Leave a comment and tell me what you need to live your best life and be your best self.