Mind-Body-Soul Balance
Striking a balance in all aspects of life is the key to happiness and well-being. We were formed with a heart that beats, a mind to exercise our intellect, muscles to contract and move, lungs to breathe and expand, nerves to transmit information, emotions to feel things and a soul to make sense of it all. If we do not use all of our resources in the right way, we can burn out, get sick, miss our potential and not live to the full.
On one hand being overzealous with work, exercise, or any human endeavour can be detrimental. On the other hand, underutilizing our minds, bodies, being anti-social and not expressing emotion can be just as harmful. Our bodies need to move, but they also require times of rest and recovery to heal broken bonds in tissue. Marathon runners need adequate periods of recovery in between training and races to allow their bodies to heal and be ready for the next race. If not, they will fall prey to injuries and illness. If we are sedentary, the body weakens and our internal processes slow down, becoming more static and predisposing to chronic health conditions.
Our minds process information more efficiently after a break from concentration. While working from home, take regular breaks and change gears by stretching, doing yoga, walking around, looking up at a tree, doing a brief meditation, adding a few strokes or stitches to a piece of artwork. This will give you a fresh outlook and ideas on whatever you are working on. For every 25 minutes of focused concentration, take a 5-minute break. If our minds are not stimulated enough, there is an increased risk of forgetfulness and early onset of dementia.
A happy human needs a balanced diet, a regular sleep routine with at least 7 – 8 hours of sleep per night, and a balanced schedule of work, exercise, play and social activities. Work can be extremely enjoyable when it is in line with your passion, talents, personality and calling in life. You can do volunteer or charity work when retired. Adults do need play and fun, whether it is playing a musical instrument, games, engaging in a creative hobby, dance, sport, improvisation, comedy and social events that are fun and enlivening.