Monday, August 9, 2010

Love After Love

The time will come when, with elation you will greet yourself arriving at your own door, in your own mirror and each will smile at the other's welcome, and say sit here. Eat. You will love again the stranger who was your self. Give wine. Give bread. Give back your heart to itself, to the stranger who has loved you all your life, whom you ignored for another, who knows you by heart. Take down the love letters from the bookshelf, the photographs, the desperate notes, peel your own image from the mirror. Sit. Feast your life.

I just had to share this poem by Derek Walcott that was shared with me during my Mindfulness in Education workshop that I attended this past weekend. It reminds me that our path to integrative, whole health begins with sitting...yes!! not necessarily running 5 miles in record time (although that could be part of it for you), but sitting!

Sitting, breathing, opening the door to your self...listening to the answers about your self that only you know. Imagine what is there!

Thursday, July 29, 2010

listening to you

When is the last time you took the time necessary to get still and hear what you have to say? Taking the time to be still and listen for the inner wisdom that only you can bestow upon yourself is the beginning of understanding where you are and where you want to go.

Filtering all the "thought attacks" our mind chatters to us will help clear the debris, sift away thoughts that are not necessary or helpful, and clear the way for the wisdom to come through.

I do this by going to the beach by myself, and basically just looking out into the distance. Sometimes reading a helpful book on topics that encourage me to be happy and healthy. Or closing my eyes as I sit in my most comfortable chair, and pay attention to my breathing.

Nothing fancy, no retreats that cost thousands (although that's fun too)! I find I have lots of helpful things to say to myself! Give it a try!

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

work out at compo beach!

I was sitting under one of the only shady spots at compo beach this morning drinking my coffee and journaling when I saw a group of 12 or so people working out with a trainer. They were really being pushed hard, in the hot sun, and I must admit I felt a little guilty sitting there so peacefully! Then I had the thought that my time relaxing and journaling was just as important to my well-being as their time to exercise was. Keeping a balance in mind, body and spirit is important for our lives. I hope they took some time during their day to relax and keep it balanced too!

Tomorrow it will be fun in the sun while playing tennis!

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Let the summer begin!

I'm ready to get going people! With the summer ahead of me I'm looking to begin a more disciplined (ugh?) yoga practice, but I must say I am overwhelmed with all the terminology! Now, I've done yoga before, but don't ask me what type of yoga it was...matsyasana, vinyasa,ashtanga just to name a few. Very confusing! So, I'll see if I can get some answers at this new yoga establishment in town...wish me luck!

Joyce

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Open The Door Integrative Health Coaching



Welcome to my first attempt at "blogging"!




My hope is that you will come away from this site with new ideas to explore as you Open the Door to living the life you are meant to live! Perhaps you can share what is working for you (or not) as you try to stay healthy or get healthy...
So, first things first....
What is your intention for your life right now? These are the ideals that are at the root of your motivation for your goals.
What are your goals? What are the specifics? How have you tracked your progress? Making them specific and measureable makes them clear and more likely to manifest. What actions have you taken that support your goals and intentions?
Fascinating isn't it? Begin with baby steps! Take the time to listen to YOU!
Now let's hear from you...how is it going?!