We hear so much about "well-being," but what does this magical word mean to you? When I think of well-being in my life, I imagine things ticking along nicely, having enough money to pay the bills, enjoying meals with friends, going on scenic hikes, and learning something new every day. Health is a major part of this, and I strive to keep aches and pains to a minimum. Most importantly, maintaining a happy mental state is crucial.
Balance and well-being are ongoing, ever-striving goals, and it's up to each of us to recognise when we've reached them. This is where mindfulness, or "smelling the roses," becomes important and should be a regular practice. In my work, my clients and I often discuss how to get rid of aches, manage arthritis, lose weight, improve our diets, and cope with depression. The list goes on. Just because I am a holistic therapist doesn't mean I'm exempt from these challenges. I also strive for balance and well-being.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution because we are all so uniquely different. What works for one person might not work for another. For instance, I have a friend who struggles with mental health issues but detests meditation. Forcing herself to meditate would only make her unhappy. Instead, she finds balance and well-being through hiking, which she absolutely loves. Another friend finds joy in painting and colouring, lifting her out of her melancholy. Another enjoys gardening and creating unique meals.
In Feng Shui, we learn to balance Yin and Yang—winter and summer, bad and good, sad and happy. This balance extends beyond our homes, our environment and into our bodies. We must accept both the bad and the good to maintain balance in all aspects of life. Checking in with yourself daily, or "smelling the roses," can help you assess what you need to do to maintain this balance.
Whether it's journaling, walking in the forest, listening to your favourite music, or even eating chocolate cake, do what feels right for you, and you'll be well on your way to achieving balance and well-being.
To help you on this journey, here are five questions for your journaling practice that can help you assess your balance and well-being:
What activities bring me the most joy and help me feel balanced?
How do I usually cope with stress, and are these methods effective?
What are the biggest obstacles to my well-being, and how can I address them?
In what areas of my life do I feel most balanced, and where do I need improvement?
What small steps can I take today to enhance my physical, mental, and emotional well-being?
Take care and continue striving for your balance and well-being!
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