The more aggressively we seek comfort, the faster we age.
~ Gary Brecka
This week, I heard the quote above. It captivated me. But, when I ran it by others, it did not resonate to the same degree.
By embracing discomfort, I have personally developed thicker skin and become more desensitized to physical and emotional pain.
As an example, at this time of year, first thing in the morning I do a two minute cold plunge. The lake is 3 degrees Celcius. And yes, it is a privilege to have easy access to a lake.
Surprisingly, as of late, my heart rate variability, a measure of how relaxed the nervous system is, has been optimal, even amid trauma.
A higher power has thrown at me crises I have been able to handle. I recognize I've been spared severe trauma experienced widely, especially by those in war-torn countries.
On autopilot, we run programs that repeat the patterns (functional or dysfunctional) we learned during our formative years.
My primary caregivers tended to be highly agitated, paternalistic, and hyper-vigilant. This is understandable, given they were challenged to grow and prepare their own food, sew the clothes we wore, and protect us from disease and natural disasters in remote volcanic islands.
I have had to practice meditation to learn to react more mindfully in a safer, more abundant, and affluent country.
Remaining calm - between stimulus and response - helps improve life experience.
Why a life of leisure may not serve us well
Nature abhors a vacuum.
~ Aristotle
From what I have observed, a life of leisure is not always conducive to optimal health.
After reflecting on Gary Brecka's quote at the opening of this blog, the thought that lingered on my mind was:
Wish not for nothing to do but self-care, for that can become a full-time job.
Because I have tended to feel other people’s pain, and am inclined to do whatever I can to help, I have associated disconnecting with recovery time. But, Nature somehow has found a way to challenge me closer to home.
Helping others can transform fear into bravery and powerlessness into courage and hope.
We thrive and feel more empowered when we help improve the quality of life for those in need.
Update on my husband's health
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and best wishes after reading last week's blog: A stroke of luck.
My apologies to those who attempted to comment but failed. I have yet to enable all WIX capabilities.
My husband's health continues to exceed expectations. Last week, a follow-up scan showed normal blood flow to the brain.
Monday, we visit the cardiology department to reassess the heart, which appears to be functioning well. For that we are grateful and hopeful that all will be well.
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