Sometimes, we find ourselves asking why we don’t consistently do the things that support our healing. We know what’s good for us, so why is it so difficult to commit? This question, raised in a recent conversation with a group of women, lingered in my mind, resonating with both confusion and frustration. As we collectively shrugged our shoulders, I couldn’t help but ponder the answer. After further reflection on my own, I realized that commitment requires effort and work, while our default mode tends to favor the path of least resistance.
The Allure of Activities that Nourish
We are creatures of habit, drawn to the comfort and familiarity of our routines. Engaging in activities that disrupt our ease can be daunting and require a conscious choice to commit. Take, for example, my personal experience with yoga. I’ve witnessed its countless benefits firsthand – the relaxation it brings to my body, the calm and centeredness it instills in my mind, and the sense of aliveness and connection it awakens in my soul. After each session, I feel completely grounded and at ease. Yoga feeds my well-being, and yet, my commitment to the practice wavers. Over the past couple of decades, I’ve found myself oscillating in and out of regular yoga practice. There have been times of dedicated commitment, attending sessions twice a week for months, supplemented by home practice with the help of online videos. But then, my dedication tapers off, and I find myself in a state of inconsistency once again. I fall out of the habit and finding the energy to recommit feels overwhelming.
The Resistance to Commitment
So why, despite knowing the immense benefits, do we struggle to commit to activities that support our healing? We can conjure up a myriad of reasons – fatigue, lack of time, competing priorities, or even the allure of a Netflix binge session. But deep down, we understand that these are mere excuses. Engaging in activities that require effort and commitment disrupts the ease we crave in our lives.
We are creatures of habit, seeking the path of least resistance. We embrace what’s easy, until it no longer serves us. When our bodies ache and our minds restlessly churn, we realize that the easy route is not so easy after all. Physical discomfort often translates into emotional unease, creating a ripple effect that disrupts our overall well-being. But then, the question remains – what do we do next?
The Tipping Point: Committing to Our Healing Journey
In our healing journey, we all reach a tipping point – a moment where the discomfort outweighs the ease of complacency. It’s at this juncture that we make a conscious decision to commit to that which supports our healing. This tipping point varies for each person, but it’s a pivotal moment where we recognize the need for change and growth. And for highly sensitive people (HSPs), this commitment holds a unique significance.
As HSPs, we possess a deep sensitivity that enables us to keenly perceive the world around us. We feel things intensely, both within ourselves and in others. This heightened sensitivity can be both a gift and a challenge. It’s vital for us to recognize that committing to activities that support our healing is not selfish or indulgent; rather, it’s an act of self-care and self-preservation.
Strategies for Embracing Commitment
While commitment may initially seem daunting, there are practical strategies we can employ to help us embrace it:
- Clarify Your Intentions: Reflect on your intentions and identify the activities that truly resonate with you. What practices or habits align with your values and support your well-being? By clarifying your intentions, you can focus your energy on commitments that genuinely matter to you.
- Create a Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and encourage your commitment. Seek out like-minded friends, join communities, or consider partnering with an accountability buddy who shares your goals. A supportive environment can provide the motivation and inspiration needed to stay committed.
- Break It Down: Sometimes, the idea of committing to a long-term practice can be overwhelming. Instead, break it down into smaller, achievable steps. Set realistic goals and celebrate each milestone along the way. This approach allows you to build momentum and gradually integrate the commitment into your daily life.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind and patient with yourself during this journey. It’s natural to encounter setbacks or moments of resistance. Instead of self-judgment, offer yourself compassion and understanding. Embrace the process of growth, knowing that it’s okay to stumble along the way.
Embracing Commitment for Personal Growth
Committing to activities that nurture our healing journey is an act of self-care and self-discovery. It’s an opportunity to prioritize our well-being and honor the unique needs that arise from our highly sensitive nature. By embracing commitment, we create space for personal growth, resilience, and profound transformation.
As you embark on this path, remember that change takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and lean on the support of others when needed. Your journey is unique, and your commitment to self-care will pave the way for a more fulfilling and empowered life.
At Constellations Counselling, we understand the challenges of embracing commitment on your healing journey. Our compassionate and experienced counsellors are here to support you every step of the way. Contact our Vancouver counsellors today to embark on a path of personal growth, resilience, and well-being.
