04 September, 2003 - 8:26 p.m.
We often hear how people are trying to build up their energy levels through exercise, diet, etc. These are wonderful practices. But it's just as important to know and understand that how we FEEL about situations, relationships, events, etc. has a profound impact on our energy.
We wake up each morning with a specific amount of mental, emotional and physical energy to spend that day. Some things add energy. Others deplete it. Most of us focus our time and attention around all that went wrong with little, if any attention, to those events that actually were energizing. Add all this up and it's no surprise how we feel at the end of the day.
It's not about good and bad or right and wrong. More importantly, it's about how energy efficient we are with our choices. By choosing how we respond, we can maximize our assets, minimize our deficits and increase what's in our energy bank account.
First, (this seems to be the tricky part) become aware of those situations, events, relationships, thoughts and emotions that are positive throughout your day. Appreciate them. Each time you celebrate these assets you accumulate more energy and increase your resilience. Give yourself this energy boost often throughout the day.
Next, become aware of those situations, events, relationships, thoughts and emotions that drain your energy. Yeah - all those things you've been bitching about! Being unaware of energy deficits creates the constant level of stress you may have grown accustomed to.
Now, try to neutralize (not as easy as it sounds) or transform energy deficits that deplete your account by turning them neutral (whichever way works best for you) to stop the negative impact on your system. Then try to shift perspective and gain insight on how a deficit can be turned into an asset.
I am continually working at it but it doesn't come naturally. Some days and some things are simply easier than others. Although I think these ideas in practice along with my pranayamas (yogic breathing exercises) have gotten my stress and subsequent nerve pain under control. Good luck.
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