The dental hygienist commented to me the other day that she could tell I had been under stress lately because I’d been grinding my teeth at night. I know I have been feeling stressed, because life in general has been pretty interesting. My dad always said there is a Chinese curse that states, “May you live interesting times.” Yes, often interesting is a curse. A bad economy, death, war, work, relationship issues, illness, etc. are all “interesting,” but something we’d rather skip. There is something to living a dull life, at least for a while … it’s less complicated and far less stressful.
Although I’ve just started my path of de-stressing, I am hoping to find some peace in my life again. Fortunately I have a great and loving husband, so my personal life is happy. The other aspects of my life are not so blissful, but those things I cannot control.
I have begun listening to quiet relaxing music before I go to sleep. I meditate as often as I can and seek quiet solitude. I am journaling again. I once did all those things in a more stressful time in my life and I’m getting back to it. In retrospect, perhaps I never should have stopped. Maybe focusing on things and relaxing would have kept me from all the tension I’ve been feeling lately.
I have continued to exercise three to five times a week, but maybe it’s time for me to walk after work and listen to music while I take my walk. The weather is getting nicer, and perhaps Mother Nature is telling me to commune with her and surround myself with natural beauty to see what’s going on in my neighborhood. I have noticed the finches and sparrows have returned and are on a feeding frenzy at the bird-feeders in my yard. I’ve also noticed little blooms on the trees, reminding me that spring is just around the corner.
I hope this insightful path I am following will bring me to a better place in my life. While nature is experiencing a rebirth and new season, perhaps I will too. With faith, perspective, love, and beauty around me, I believe all things are possible.
