That same night, I e-mailed myself this as well. What? I felt inspired . . .
"It's true! I invite the Universe to remind me of this as much as I need to be reminded!"
There is this line from Eckhart Tolle I've been thinking about a lot lately. Someone asked him, how they could know if meditation would work to transform their life. His answer, "Begin meditating and your life will become the evidence you seek."
Along those lines, I am committing to meditating more regularly. There's a guided meditation podcast I like and an entry on healing that I particularly enjoy. I will find time to listen to it at least once a day.
There is also this series of yoga poses I've been wanting to try out for ages and I just started actually practicing it the other day. I want to do it at least twice a week for six weeks before I share what it is and what my results are.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
I am increasing my mental and physical capacity
This is something I e-mailed myself one (yeah, I do that sometimes. so?) evening when blogger wasn't working . . .
"I hereby declare 2011 to be the year of positive thinking and self-acceptance.
"I hereby declare 2011 to be the year of positive thinking and self-acceptance.
Let this stand as my dedication to myself and the people I love that I will, to the best of my abilities, build myself up, instead of break myself down. I am far more wonderful and powerful than I usually allow myself to embrace. I want now to be the turning point. I want now to be the shift for when my emotional state goes from being 'in the red' to being 'in the black.'"
keep your arms and legs inside the ride at all times
Life continues to move forward whether or not I'm ready to let go of the past.
The end of my Fulbright experience is nigh and I'm continuing to look for jobs. I've pared down my search to: Germany, Holland, Spain, Texas and Louisiana. The latter two options would mean that I'd have to have a car, but it would also mean being within driving distance of the people I love more than anything. I've been feeling kind of emotional lately and one of my triggers has definitely been family. I miss everyone, family and friends, and I'd really love to see them again. It would also be nice to be in a setting that is totally, 100% familiar and comfortable. Staying in Europe would automatically mean living a more active lifestyle. It would mean adventure, stimulation and the opportunity to pursue dreams I've had since childhood. But it would also mean starting over, feeling alone and experiencing moments of cultural alienation. Even though I mostly understand what people are saying, there always comes a time when I have no clue what people are talking about. And I could put together slideshows of swamps and moss-covered cypress trees, Mardi Gras and crawfish boils 'til the cows come home. I could talk until I was blue in the face about the bizarre and rich-to-the-point-of-saturated culture I grew up in, but I would never justifiably explain to someone what that means to me or how it has shaped who I am. No one would ever totally understand. I feel like I'm straddling a great divide and if I stumble, I drop off into an abyss. I have decided to place myself here, of course, and if I simply chose a side, a part of me would always be craning my neck to see the other shore.
Is it such a horrible thing to feel isolated? Is it the end of the world to feel misunderstood? No, to both questions. It's probably really common. I don't always like it, though. But I can't let fear or loneliness stop me from pursuing the things that have stirred my spirit since I was a little girl mischievously running, running, running no where and every where.
I feel like this only partially makes sense, but I wanted to get it out, so I appreciate your patience.
Another one of my triggers has been the topic of coupling. I changed my mind quite suddenly about having a family of my own just a few weeks ago. Which had been really cool on one hand and terrifying on the other. It certainly has done nothing to ease the moments that inevitably come when my entire person wonders in exasperation, "Is this EVER going happen for me?" Followed by the much quieter and more pathetic, "Why hasn't this happened for me yet?" And finally, "What if it doesn't ever happen for me?" Sometimes I don't stress myself about it at all, really. But the desire to meet someone special to share my life with never totally goes away. I do attempt to trick myself into thinking it's gone, but honestly it's only so I can open myself up for one of those when-you-least-expect-it moments that people are so proud tell you about. I've put it out there, I've made ridiculous lists, I've asked and asked. What I really want is to live my life with gusto. I want to do the things that I love. I want to embrace what I've been given. And I want that tiny little question mark that's forever in a far corner of my mind to leave. I invite that whimper of, "Where could he be?" to die out and I want it to happen completely without bitterness. I want it to die a painless, graceful death in my sleep.
Again, I'm sorry if this is fading in and out of being understandable.
I just know that I'm standing on a precipice, about to go flying off and it's scary because I have no idea where I'm going to fall.
The end of my Fulbright experience is nigh and I'm continuing to look for jobs. I've pared down my search to: Germany, Holland, Spain, Texas and Louisiana. The latter two options would mean that I'd have to have a car, but it would also mean being within driving distance of the people I love more than anything. I've been feeling kind of emotional lately and one of my triggers has definitely been family. I miss everyone, family and friends, and I'd really love to see them again. It would also be nice to be in a setting that is totally, 100% familiar and comfortable. Staying in Europe would automatically mean living a more active lifestyle. It would mean adventure, stimulation and the opportunity to pursue dreams I've had since childhood. But it would also mean starting over, feeling alone and experiencing moments of cultural alienation. Even though I mostly understand what people are saying, there always comes a time when I have no clue what people are talking about. And I could put together slideshows of swamps and moss-covered cypress trees, Mardi Gras and crawfish boils 'til the cows come home. I could talk until I was blue in the face about the bizarre and rich-to-the-point-of-saturated culture I grew up in, but I would never justifiably explain to someone what that means to me or how it has shaped who I am. No one would ever totally understand. I feel like I'm straddling a great divide and if I stumble, I drop off into an abyss. I have decided to place myself here, of course, and if I simply chose a side, a part of me would always be craning my neck to see the other shore.
Is it such a horrible thing to feel isolated? Is it the end of the world to feel misunderstood? No, to both questions. It's probably really common. I don't always like it, though. But I can't let fear or loneliness stop me from pursuing the things that have stirred my spirit since I was a little girl mischievously running, running, running no where and every where.
I feel like this only partially makes sense, but I wanted to get it out, so I appreciate your patience.
Another one of my triggers has been the topic of coupling. I changed my mind quite suddenly about having a family of my own just a few weeks ago. Which had been really cool on one hand and terrifying on the other. It certainly has done nothing to ease the moments that inevitably come when my entire person wonders in exasperation, "Is this EVER going happen for me?" Followed by the much quieter and more pathetic, "Why hasn't this happened for me yet?" And finally, "What if it doesn't ever happen for me?" Sometimes I don't stress myself about it at all, really. But the desire to meet someone special to share my life with never totally goes away. I do attempt to trick myself into thinking it's gone, but honestly it's only so I can open myself up for one of those when-you-least-expect-it moments that people are so proud tell you about. I've put it out there, I've made ridiculous lists, I've asked and asked. What I really want is to live my life with gusto. I want to do the things that I love. I want to embrace what I've been given. And I want that tiny little question mark that's forever in a far corner of my mind to leave. I invite that whimper of, "Where could he be?" to die out and I want it to happen completely without bitterness. I want it to die a painless, graceful death in my sleep.
Again, I'm sorry if this is fading in and out of being understandable.
I just know that I'm standing on a precipice, about to go flying off and it's scary because I have no idea where I'm going to fall.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
preoccupied
I have not been able to focus on much more than money (or lack thereof), finding a job and not knowing where I'll be at the end of July.
My stomach has been sort of tied in knots for the past few weeks, probably for a number of reasons. I have not been taking care of my inner-person, for starters. I have been unable to be patient about finding a job. I have this inner sense of urgency that I want, I NEED to know RIGHT NOW what I'll be doing and where I'll be doing it.
I'm sure I've learned more than I realize from this experience. One thing I learned very early on is that I am ready for a real, grown-up lady job. Complete with grown-up lady benefits and pay. Another thing I learned is that, where ever I end up next, I want to stay for a while. When I say a while, think at least five years. I learned also that I would rather stay in Europe for the time being. I'm getting pressure from a couple different fronts to return permanently to the US. Which I am not opposed to. In fact, I do feel torn . . .
If I return to the US, I will be at home. I will be closer to friends and family. I have more ties and connections there.
If I stay here, I can continue to explore this continent that is rich in history and culture. I can continue improving my German, as well as learning other foreign languages. I don't have to buy a car. It is easier for me to live a lifestyle that is healthy and makes me feel happy. People here are less conservative, and that makes me feel more at ease.
No matter how many lists or bar graphs I make, the bottom line is that when I think about returning to the US I am not devastated. But when I think of the inescapable other side of the coin, when I think of leaving Europe, I am sad. There is something inside me screaming out NO! We want to stay here.
The fact remains that I have not that much control over where I'll end up. All I can do is send out my resume and cover letter and hope that someone sees something in those documents that makes them want to take a chance on me. I am ready. I am eager. I want to get in there and work, dammit. Somebody please just give me a chance!
One of the reasons I wanted to write right now, is that I have been making myself tired with this loop of defeating thoughts. I have been extra hard on myself recently, I know without a doubt that I have to cut that shit out. So, I hereby pledge to devote more time today and in the up-coming week to doing things that encourage positive thoughts about myself and my future. I pledge to do things that make me feel good about myself. I pledge to take care of my entire person.
And I pledge to stay positive about the job search. I also think it's a good idea to inject, somehow, more patience into the process.
So, I invite those pledges to take root in my life.
My stomach has been sort of tied in knots for the past few weeks, probably for a number of reasons. I have not been taking care of my inner-person, for starters. I have been unable to be patient about finding a job. I have this inner sense of urgency that I want, I NEED to know RIGHT NOW what I'll be doing and where I'll be doing it.
I'm sure I've learned more than I realize from this experience. One thing I learned very early on is that I am ready for a real, grown-up lady job. Complete with grown-up lady benefits and pay. Another thing I learned is that, where ever I end up next, I want to stay for a while. When I say a while, think at least five years. I learned also that I would rather stay in Europe for the time being. I'm getting pressure from a couple different fronts to return permanently to the US. Which I am not opposed to. In fact, I do feel torn . . .
If I return to the US, I will be at home. I will be closer to friends and family. I have more ties and connections there.
If I stay here, I can continue to explore this continent that is rich in history and culture. I can continue improving my German, as well as learning other foreign languages. I don't have to buy a car. It is easier for me to live a lifestyle that is healthy and makes me feel happy. People here are less conservative, and that makes me feel more at ease.
No matter how many lists or bar graphs I make, the bottom line is that when I think about returning to the US I am not devastated. But when I think of the inescapable other side of the coin, when I think of leaving Europe, I am sad. There is something inside me screaming out NO! We want to stay here.
The fact remains that I have not that much control over where I'll end up. All I can do is send out my resume and cover letter and hope that someone sees something in those documents that makes them want to take a chance on me. I am ready. I am eager. I want to get in there and work, dammit. Somebody please just give me a chance!
One of the reasons I wanted to write right now, is that I have been making myself tired with this loop of defeating thoughts. I have been extra hard on myself recently, I know without a doubt that I have to cut that shit out. So, I hereby pledge to devote more time today and in the up-coming week to doing things that encourage positive thoughts about myself and my future. I pledge to do things that make me feel good about myself. I pledge to take care of my entire person.
And I pledge to stay positive about the job search. I also think it's a good idea to inject, somehow, more patience into the process.
So, I invite those pledges to take root in my life.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
gettin real
Dear Readers,
Things have not been going ideally with food choices this week. It feels like I have been eating everything that isn't tied down, which I think is partially true and partially exaggerated. I can only assume that there is some un-addressed inner turbulence that is now manifesting outwardly. Maybe I am afraid of not finding a job. Maybe I'm stressed that I don't know where I will be come July. Maybe I am lonely. Maybe I am tired of being my own worst enemy. Whatever the case, it would be best to do something besides writing to feel whatever it is that food has been shielding me from. Also, it would be good for me to eat without distractions. I think I mentioned this before, but I want to cease eating past about 9 o'clock at night. I've been drinking a goodly amount of water, so you know, I'll take my props on that one. I would like to keep it up.
Inspired by the run-away train that has been my eating this week, I've considered going back to Weight Watchers. I didn't go very far with it when I was in Laffy and have been, consequently, dubious as per my successfully using the program this go 'round. I was thinking, though, that I am in a different place now and I shouldn't let those "old tracks" stop me. Will let you know.
The not watching shows on the Internet before working out has been a fucking bust, BUT . . . I've been working out anyway!! Yeeuh! I've already been to Pilates twice this week and I'm going to Pilates and Yoga tonight. I have decided to put off jogging for now until my foot/ankle is feeling more up to it . . . I don't want to push it and cause worse or permanent damage. Then I'd never be able to run, which would be a tragedy! I've dreamed basically my entire life of being a runner and it is a long-term goal of mine to run in a half- (and eventually full) marathon. I'm also toying with the idea of triathlons, but I really hate swimming. That's not true. What little swimming I've done has actually been kind of awesome. I hate bathing suits. Which is also why I "hate" water-related activities and the beach. Sad really, but I know it's not going to be that way for the rest of my life.
Alright, I need to get myself together to make it out the door in time for my classes. Imma holla at y'all soon.
Things have not been going ideally with food choices this week. It feels like I have been eating everything that isn't tied down, which I think is partially true and partially exaggerated. I can only assume that there is some un-addressed inner turbulence that is now manifesting outwardly. Maybe I am afraid of not finding a job. Maybe I'm stressed that I don't know where I will be come July. Maybe I am lonely. Maybe I am tired of being my own worst enemy. Whatever the case, it would be best to do something besides writing to feel whatever it is that food has been shielding me from. Also, it would be good for me to eat without distractions. I think I mentioned this before, but I want to cease eating past about 9 o'clock at night. I've been drinking a goodly amount of water, so you know, I'll take my props on that one. I would like to keep it up.
Inspired by the run-away train that has been my eating this week, I've considered going back to Weight Watchers. I didn't go very far with it when I was in Laffy and have been, consequently, dubious as per my successfully using the program this go 'round. I was thinking, though, that I am in a different place now and I shouldn't let those "old tracks" stop me. Will let you know.
The not watching shows on the Internet before working out has been a fucking bust, BUT . . . I've been working out anyway!! Yeeuh! I've already been to Pilates twice this week and I'm going to Pilates and Yoga tonight. I have decided to put off jogging for now until my foot/ankle is feeling more up to it . . . I don't want to push it and cause worse or permanent damage. Then I'd never be able to run, which would be a tragedy! I've dreamed basically my entire life of being a runner and it is a long-term goal of mine to run in a half- (and eventually full) marathon. I'm also toying with the idea of triathlons, but I really hate swimming. That's not true. What little swimming I've done has actually been kind of awesome. I hate bathing suits. Which is also why I "hate" water-related activities and the beach. Sad really, but I know it's not going to be that way for the rest of my life.
Alright, I need to get myself together to make it out the door in time for my classes. Imma holla at y'all soon.
Monday, April 11, 2011
update
Last week went pretty well. I feel overall pretty good about my food choices, as well as the amount of exercise I got.
One of my goals was to continue with the couch to 5k training plan, which would have had me running 3 times last week. I did not achieve this particular goal; however, I did attempt to go for a jog one day last week and my right ankle, which has been giving me some trouble lately, was not happy at all. I was however, jogging faster than I normally do and I think that might have everything to do with my ankle screaming out for us to stop. I will set the goal to take up the couch to 5k cause again this week, only keeping in mind to keep the pace WAY down. If my ankle is still unhappy, then I think I will have to have it looked at . . . :(
My other exercise goal was to practice yoga and pilates once, which I also did not accomplish . . . I did, however, practice yoga twice, so I'm going to tick this goal off as a success. I went to Power Yoga on Saturday and it was EXCELLENT. Our teacher was a specimen of human strength and beauty. He was also very hands-on and did a lot of correcting, which is a wonderful opportunity for us as students. I would like to go back this Saturday. I will keep this exercise goal as is for this week, because I know I can easily and happily accomplish it.
My nutrition goals for this week are also about the same: lots of fruits and veggies and lean protein and less breads and refined carbohydrates.
One of my goals was to continue with the couch to 5k training plan, which would have had me running 3 times last week. I did not achieve this particular goal; however, I did attempt to go for a jog one day last week and my right ankle, which has been giving me some trouble lately, was not happy at all. I was however, jogging faster than I normally do and I think that might have everything to do with my ankle screaming out for us to stop. I will set the goal to take up the couch to 5k cause again this week, only keeping in mind to keep the pace WAY down. If my ankle is still unhappy, then I think I will have to have it looked at . . . :(
My other exercise goal was to practice yoga and pilates once, which I also did not accomplish . . . I did, however, practice yoga twice, so I'm going to tick this goal off as a success. I went to Power Yoga on Saturday and it was EXCELLENT. Our teacher was a specimen of human strength and beauty. He was also very hands-on and did a lot of correcting, which is a wonderful opportunity for us as students. I would like to go back this Saturday. I will keep this exercise goal as is for this week, because I know I can easily and happily accomplish it.
My nutrition goals for this week are also about the same: lots of fruits and veggies and lean protein and less breads and refined carbohydrates.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
10 day experiment in self acceptance, day 10
"Lesson: 'This place where you are right now. God circled on a map for you.' — Hafiz
The internal obstacles to being yourself are the same as the obstacles to living fully in the world. You negate yourself by telling yourself that your presence doesn't really matter; nobody wants to hear what you have to say; your vote doesn't really make a difference; and other people are somehow more important than you.
Self-acceptance deeply affirms your true essence, wishing you well in every situation you may find yourself. By giving yourself permission to stand in your truth, you can show up more fully in your life. You can take the risk of being you in order to find out who that really is. Self-acceptance allows you to be just yourself. Not your self-image, but the original you that came to be with us here on earth.
Exercise: Self-acceptance is the start of something wonderful. I describe it as a revelation because you can't possibly know beforehand how good your life will get once you start to experience a deep love for yourself, maybe even for the first time. This deep love reveals a perfect wholeness that cannot be destroyed by any experience in this world.
Rejoice in this mantra: 'I am here.' The more present you are, the more whole you feel inside. Notice how wonderful it feels to be deeply present in your body and in your life. With self-acceptance, you feel at home in your body, an open road appears before you, and a new journey begins."
The internal obstacles to being yourself are the same as the obstacles to living fully in the world. You negate yourself by telling yourself that your presence doesn't really matter; nobody wants to hear what you have to say; your vote doesn't really make a difference; and other people are somehow more important than you.
Self-acceptance deeply affirms your true essence, wishing you well in every situation you may find yourself. By giving yourself permission to stand in your truth, you can show up more fully in your life. You can take the risk of being you in order to find out who that really is. Self-acceptance allows you to be just yourself. Not your self-image, but the original you that came to be with us here on earth.
Exercise: Self-acceptance is the start of something wonderful. I describe it as a revelation because you can't possibly know beforehand how good your life will get once you start to experience a deep love for yourself, maybe even for the first time. This deep love reveals a perfect wholeness that cannot be destroyed by any experience in this world.
Rejoice in this mantra: 'I am here.' The more present you are, the more whole you feel inside. Notice how wonderful it feels to be deeply present in your body and in your life. With self-acceptance, you feel at home in your body, an open road appears before you, and a new journey begins."
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