Being

What’s a fear you’ve overcome — and how did you do it?

“the fear of just being”  what do I mean one may ask?

Well it is feeling uncomfortable simply existing without constantly doing, achieving, fixing, or proving something, and I know I am not alone. Many people struggle with this.

I have learned to notice the fear without fighting it.
Ask myself, “What am I afraid will happen if I simply sit and be present?” Sometimes the answer is loneliness, boredom, grief, uncertainty, or feeling unimportant.

I have learned to practice short periods of stillness. Because I teach yoga and meditation, I know that presence is a practice. Even 5 minutes of sitting quietly, observing my breath, sounds, or sensations, has help build tolerance for me just simply being.

I have learned to separate worth from productivity. As most people I learned to believe my value was when I am helping, working, caregiving, or accomplishing something. Human worth existed before achievement.

I have always had a connection with something larger than myself.
As a spiritual person, I have found comfort in prayer, contemplation, nature, or reflecting on the idea that my existence itself has meaning, independent of what I produce.

So, the question my dear prompt fairy was a good one as I have not had these feelings in a very very long time and it does ebb and flow since my retirement from a 9 to 5…

I remember to stop and enjoy this here and now….being present in this moment….so now.

A new mental heath post is forth coming… Sunday…Sunday…..Sunday….stay tuned.

Remember if you or someone  you know is challenged with mental health issues please seek professional support and assistance.

Donna