Henepola Gunaratana Quote: “Mindfulness gives you time. Time gives you choices. Choices, skillfully made, lead to freedom. You don’t have to be swept away by your feelings. You can respond with wisdom and kindness rather than habit and reactivity.”
As we lead up to the 3 day detox cleanse challenge Winter 2023, I thought it might be helpful to share some insight, from the Breaking Habits Series – Calm.com.
The more we practice mindfulness as a habit, the easier it becomes to resist our cravings.
Jay Shetty, defines habit as“Tiny choices, small actions that can lead to lifelong change” – Own the Day – Calm.com
There are healthy habits, that help build a foundation of wellness and there are not so healthy habits, that do the exact opposite.
When we give into a craving without thought, we feel an immediate sense of relief.
The mind believes that choosing to indulge, will make us feel good and satisfied. Instant gratification is a beautiful thing !
However, when we succumb to our cravings, again and again and again, without thought, that immediate sense of relief can be followed by feelings of regret and shame.
We need to learn to stop …pause … and witness the craving in the moment without acting, allowing the urge to pass. Be curious! What am I feeling in this moment ? Do I really need this ? Is this going to make me feel better in the long run or, is it simply a form of short term relief from a really lousy day?
If we allow ourselves to truly be in the moment and connect with our feelings, we may discover that we are engaging in this behaviour to help us “numb and take the edge off vulnerability, pain and discomfort.” Brene Brown – The Gifts of Imperfection
Sound familiar ?
When I think back to the early days of the pandemic, I would come home at the end of every day and pour myself the biggest glass of Chardonnay you can imagine. Like the size of a fish bowl. I absolutely wanted to numb myself from the feelings of fear and anxiety that had quickly taken over my entire being.
My advice to you, is to feel what you’re feeling. It can be painful but, the pain will dissipate. Nothing is permanent.
Thankfully almost three years later, I am no longer in the grip of those feelings and I’m able to savour a glass of wine, without over indulging. I choose mindfully, aware of how much is too much. Everything in moderation. Such wisdom 🙂
I share this example, to illustrate how nasty habits can quickly take control of our daily behaviours, eroding our foundation of well being.
When we step away from our everyday habits to detox and cleanse (even if it is only for three days), we have an opportunity to practice mindful awareness.
Challenge yourself.
You can do anything you put your mind to!
Have a great evening peeps !
K
Coffee & Chardonnay 
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