Get Balanced

There are three words that I use all the time in my nutrition mantra - Variety, Moderation and Balance. In some ways, these may seem to overlap and I suppose they do to a degree, but they are very different in application. And that's what makes all the difference, isn't it? Application.

Variety and moderation are, to a degree, self-evident. However, we'll get to those in future posts. Today I want to focus on balance. Probably because I'm feeling a little unbalanced. With the speed of life and many changeable factors in my life, I feel like things have gotten a little out of sorts. Balance is something that I always struggle with - I want to do everything and I hate to say no. Therefore, I naturally keep a schedule that's over-committed, far too full and I'm stretched. But I'm usually happy! So for me, balance is something difficult.

Unlike variety and moderation, balance is very individualized. What I consider balance may be a little nuts to someone else. Balance is partly based on personality. For me, balance doesn't mean long periods of quiet reflection and stillness, but I still need some of that. I can't separate myself from friends and family, though I do need some alone time.

What it does mean for me, and I bet for you too, is finding a place where the tasks, commitments, responsibilities, and "to-dos" have a place beside Me time. It means carving out time to nourish myself physically (healthy, nutritious food and moderate exercise), mentally (reflection, laughter, and sometimes a good cry) and spiritually (worship, prayer, meditation and reading scripture). Nearly 1/4 of the way into 2011, it's time to have a reality check and do what is necessary to get balanced. Be healthy!