Rushing is in fashion. We drive at least ten miles over whatever the speed limit is to get from one place to another. Even if our rushing is done virtually in moving from one Zoom group to another, we frantically search for the next meeting ID and password and in staccato rhythm type in the required information for the next meeting. A zombie-like quality is our mental state of being, but we applaud ourselves because at least we are physically present. Our status in life seems to be dependent upon the highest number of meetings in a day, a week. The brain does not multi-task, but we make it do so and are satisfied with the resulting mediocrity in our lives.
Our bodies grow fat, but there is little thought or time given to the nourishment of the food we consume. Preparation of one’s food takes too much time. We eat foods that are essentially fat, sugar and chemicals (with long names that tell us little or nothing about their effects on our bodies). Our bodies enlarge and we buy new clothes to fit the larger physique. Nourishment is rarely a consideration. The body needs proteins, carbs, and fat to stay healthy, function well and give energy.
Since so much of what we need or want can be shipped or delivered to us in short order, there is no need to exercise. Our bodies copy our brains. We move from sitting for more hours than the body can tolerate and then complain about the aches. Exercise improves the circulation, gets much needed oxygen to the brain. The Mayo Clinic posits that exercise can control weight, decreases risk of cardiovascular disease, improves mood, boost energy/promotes better sleep, sparks sex life, can be fun and social. [Mayo Clinic, Healthy Lifestyle Fitness, Exercise: 7 benefits of regular physical activity, Mayo Clinic Staff. May 11, 2019]
The best of something takes time. You are the best of all in creation. Can you make time to care for your valuable self? If you maintain a healthy self, you just might be able to bring fresh input during the many Zoom meetings. Your time with important others may have deeper meaning. New directions for your own life might come to mind. You have so much to give, but you need to first take care of yourself to give meaningfully to others. Self-care is a daily act of love to yourself.
Reflections
What are you doing to nurture your relationships with family and close friends?
What activities are mentally stimulating to you? How much time do you give to them?
What do you do to strengthen your spiritual life? Do you have a spiritual practice that is important to your life? What makes this practice significant to you?
Dorothy Watson Tatem, D.Min., ACC
Senior Associate
Next Step Associates, LLC
Cassandra W. Jones, Ed.D.
CEO & President
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