The spring equinox (when sunlight and darkness share equal time on the planet) is a metaphorical reminder for us to strive for balance in our lives as well. I was once asked on a national television show to put the concept of stress management into a sound byte. Since the expression, “Don’t worry, be happy” was already taken, I opted for a one-word byte: “Balance.” I never cease to be reminded how important the concept of balance is when I am teaching or facilitating programs on the topic of stress management. Balance is the undercurrent to nearly everything, including happiness, health even longevity. Balance is not a hard concept to grasp, but in this ever-changing world we live in, it often becomes a challenge to maintain. Balance is inherent to the human condition, from our first steps as a child to our checkbooks. Amid all the daily distractions, change can often throw us out of balance. Nature offers many examples of how we can best live our lives in balance. Lao Tzu, the father of the Taoist philosophy speaks of this in his immortal book, The Tao to Ching:
Here is some simple advice: Less is more!
• Stress Tip(s) for the Day
Take inventory on your life today and check and see what appears to be “out of balance.” Imbalance and poor healthy boundaries often go hand in hand so you may wish to look at a score of human behaviors. Pick one and pull the reins in to help you maintain a sense of balance.
• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Pick up a copy of the Tao de Ching (perhaps even at your local library). It contains a world of wisdom of how to live our lives in balance.
• Photo of the Day:
While at Hilton Head Island last week for a health promotion conference (hence the lack of blog entries and I apologize), I took a stroll along the beach at sunrise everyday. Here is one photo from the trip. Enjoy
• Quote for the Day:
“Stand like mountain, flow like water.” —Lao Tzu
Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net
© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.
