I hate routine...Routine equals boring. Routine equals obligation, work. And I hate feeling like I'm being told what to do, bound. But without some sort of regularity, my nerves get very heightened, I feel rudderless, lost in the chaos that changes shape from minute to minute. So what to do? Today it occurred to me, that I need some things that are constant. These are things that nourish me and I need them daily to guard against breakdowns. Things you could call vitamins for the soul. You could call these vitamins for the soul, practices. Now these regularly scheduled things don't seem so boring, or obligatory. They don't seem like work. They become necessities to a balanced, healthy, happy life. For me. Funny how the same tasks, when looked at from a different angle, or in this case, framed by a different word, take on a whole new tint to it. Instead of soul sucking routine, now they become lifegiving inspiration. My vitamins are exercise, good food and attention to spirit. I especially like yoga for exercise. Good food for me is easy...I enjoy eating, and I mostly choose healthy fare. Attention to spirit can take a different for each day, depending on inspiration. It could take the shape of reading whether books or articles online and writing from my heart on my blog or journaling. I find when I keep these simple promises daily, I am so much happier and organized and those around me can feel the difference. There are also times when I descend into the cave voluntarily for a short intense retreat, and that bears some extraordinary fruit like a breakthrough I couldn't get otherwise. As I look at this, I see how very little I need in order to make a great life. And I don't need to buy anything, get anything from anyone. I have it all within my reach and grasp. When I quiet down and slow down I can take a good look around.
