CounselingBlog

The balanced life

So many people, myself included, seek to find "the balanced life."  I don't know how you define that, but in my mind, it is the fantasy that all m work will be caught up, house clean, laundry folded, and I have time to exercise, visit with friends and family, sleep enough, read good books, and play with my perfectly trained dogs.

The fact is, the desire for balance is a good one, but the distance between fantasy and reality can be great and the gap can be discouraging.

My hunch is that if we looked at all aspects of our lives, relationships, work life, exercise, play, spirituality, quiet time, you'll find the categories that you need - in terms of a big pie chart (LOL), we might begin to get closer to that balance we seek. 

As you plan your week, look at calendar, commitments, etc., start scheduling time for these pie chart areas that are overlooked.  Schedule a little time to play with the dogs, or take a walk with your spouse, or read a novel.  You won't be able to get to all the pie pieces every week - or at least I can't.  But if you look at longer blocks of time, say one month, you shold be able to devote some time to each imnportant area.
 

A balanced life might be our call to look at the bigger picture, not just this one day.  How are you going to change your schedule to bring more balance and better quality of life? 

Cynthia
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Cynthia McKenna Counseling
www.cynthiamckennacounseling.com
www.counselingblog.com

Addiction

I just read an article by NY Times food writer, Mark Bittman. I love Mark Bittman, he focuses on simple, good food and his recipes are inviting. He also posts short cooking videos on the Times website that are instructive and often entertaining.

This morning, I read a piece he wrote about taking a break from electronics. A weekly sabbath from his computer, PDA, telephone, you name it. I found that I resonated with the article, and am also considering giving up my electronic friends one day a week, or at least trying it out.

As I typed that last sentence, my stomach clenched, and I caught myself holding my breath - ye gads, this is going to be a challenge.

"Hello, my name is Cynthia, and I am addicted to my technology..."

Here is the article, in case you want to read it.

I Need a Virtual Break, No Really

I would love to read your comments on this. I am off to see if my iPHone actually has an on/off switch.

Cynthia

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Cynthia McKenna Counseling
www.cynthiamckennacounseling.com
www.counselingblog.com

Reducing Stress - Inner Christmas

A dear friend sent me this link - inviting us to an Inner Christmas. The idea is to take 12 minutes each night to look inward, to tend to your own soul's journey. It is a call to quiet reflection.

This idea appeals to me. I am having a busier than usual holiday and a reminder to be quiet, still, and meditate or contemplate, seems a good counter-balance to the noise and rush of the holidays.

Taking time for oneself isn't easy during the holidays, however, it could bring insight into your regular life and deeper joy in your celebrations.

I hope you are able to find some stillness and peace within yourself during this season.

Cynthia

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Cynthia McKenna Counseling
CounselingBlog