“We humans have lost the wisdom of genuinely resting and relaxing. We worry too much. We don’t allow our bodies to heal, and we don’t allow our minds and hearts to heal.” ~ Thich Nhat Hanh
It was during my third breaking point on Monday alone when I realized there would be no end to the breaking points. The idea of getting through one more obstacle in the hope that it would be the last one – I suddenly saw it as the folly it was, and in that instant the lifting began. We go through so many things without letting others know, especially those of us who aren’t accustomed to asking for help or admitting failure. And for those whom the world views as gliding through life so easy and effortlessly – well, those may very well be the ones who are closest to drowning.
Stress and worry are the constant companions of adulthood, but there are those who have found a way of dealing with them without letting them weigh down or overwhelm their daily existence. These are the wise ones who have embraced the importance of recharging their batteries, of making time for relaxation and rest. They are the ones who have found how to release regret and anger and annoyance – to acknowledge and then genuinely set them free. They have found ways of play, of laughing at the absurdity of life, and how we as humans just pile more nonsense and silliness on top of everything until it’s one big mess. They’re the ones who seem to have it all figured out.
“It’s very important that we re-learn the art of resting and relaxing. Not only does it help prevent the onset of many illnesses that develop through chronic tension and worrying; it allows us to clear our minds, focus, and find creative solutions to problems.” ~ Thich Nhat Hanh
As we near the warmer months, and the coming of summer, the seasons will soon turn to those of fun and enjoyment – the traditional time of vacations and relaxation. Summer eases all, with its lazy, hazy days of heat and humidity, when the mere act of walking from one room to another seems to take a Herculean effort. Summer is funny and wonderful that way, and fraught with lessons I’m still trying to master. I can’t wait to keep trying.
“We will be more successful in all our endeavors if we can let go of the habit of running all the time, and take little pauses to relax and re-center ourselves. And we’ll also have a lot more joy in living.” ~ Thich Nhat Hanh
Back to Blog
