When I use the word WELLNESS or more specifically the words, authentic wellness, I mean body, mind and spirit. One without the other remains incomplete with any potential for true wellbeing removed.
So, Elements of Wellness does not willingly or easily separate the three. We don’t talk only about fitness or exclusively about nutrition. We deeply explore these subjects but we also delve into the emotions, mindsets, and many other topics of personal growth in the hopes of bring all three of these elements of authentic wellness into harmony as that is when wellness is truly discovered and enjoyed.
Maybe that seems nebulous. It could feel daunting, just too big and broad to embrace and expect to attain. I promise you it is not. There is one simple thing to understand from the very beginning of your desire for authentic wellness. It is expressed in one word: Journey. Wellness is a journey. Once that is understood, wellness becomes an exciting opportunity, a thrilling experience, and ultimately a rewarding lifestyle.
Before we get to the “how to”, let me first say…
There is a beginning but there is no end. You are about to embark on a lifelong ride; the ride of your life. It will be fun at times, incredibly hard and frustrating at others. It will come with challenges and victories; seasons of great reward and success, moments of defeat. It will evolve as you transform. It will be a journey without regrets! It will be the best journey of your life.
So, how do you begin?
· Know your Motivation
What is it that has inspired you to begin this journey of authentic wellness? What is your why? Is it poor health? What about low self esteem, self worth, value? Is it a dream that has been surrendered? Have you lost yourself in a world of demands and expectations? Ask yourself, why you want to embark on this journey. Write it down. Own it. Share it.
· Do What You Love
So you’ve discovered your why. Now it is about the how. There are plans galore available for your journey no matter what the goal is. My encouragement is not to accept mainstream methods, generic, one size fits all methodology. Instead develop a plan to achieve your WHY that is built on doing what you love. If you hate running, don’t run. Do martial arts instead if that works for you. Make it about you and what you love doing. The truth is, if you don’t love how you are attaining your goal, you’ll quit in frustration and despair. Conversely, if you love it, though it may be hard, you’ll thrive.
· Support
“It takes a village” is very true. You need support, accountability, encouragement. You need a village to surround you in the journey. This is not a solo act. Gather up friends, family, loved ones, co-workers, Facebook buddies, Twiends and form a team that is motivated for your success.
· Appreciate Success
The phrase, “do not despise small beginnings” comes to the forefront of my mind. Not all the steps will be huge. Some will be small. Some might even appear to be taken in reverse. But again, it is about the journey. Celebrate every measure of progress with a heart of gratitude, a spirit of thankfulness and joy for what you have and even will accomplish. Appreciate the journey!
I began my journey to wellness nearly 15 years ago. The experience has been one I would not trade for anything in the world. No, it has not always been easy. In fact, right now, in this very moment a painful new layer, like the layers of an onion, is being peeled away. I just know, in spite of the discomfort of the moment, that the transformation that is occurring in my life even after 15 years is beautiful, magical, wonderful.
Wellness, authenticity in your life, is something that can easily be lost in this world. You must intentionally, with passion and determination, with bulldog tenacity, pursue it lest it elude you.
