Prior musings have outlined a method of optimizing physical, mental and spiritual health by focusing on self-care and embracing the mindful attitudes of non-judgmental acceptance, patience, curiosity, trust, non-striving,letting go and kindness.
This musing explores the importance of mindful community involvement. Human beings are social creatures by nature and nurture. We learn from each other and depend on each other. Social involvement improves our mood,immune system and resilience.
There is a wide variation in individual habit for socializing and community involvement ranging from hermit to social butterfly. It is healthy to find one’s own place on this social continuum that achieves a balance of sharing with community versus nourishing solitude.
Mindful self reflection and awareness may open a window into understanding if adjustments in social involvement level are needed. If you are often overwhelmed by social obligations, tune into your body and mind to explore these feelings. You may discover deeper motivations for your involvement. Staying true to your core values can give a satisfying meaning and pace for social connection. Carefully consider requests for committees,social groups,etc by checking in with yourself. A natural enthusiasm and energy can be your guide. Do you say “yes” out of obligation,ego, need to be a pleaser or fear ? Better to be involved in social groups that genuinely resonate with you. The mindful quality of non-striving might be helpful.
Our time and energy fluctuates ,so it is healthy to adjust involvement accordingly. If you are feeling overwhelmed and tired you do yourself and your social group a favour by taking time to rest and restore. Sometimes “no” is a complete sentence!
On the other side of this continuum is social isolation or underinvolvement. If you are feeling bored or disconnected, it is healthy to consider the mindful qualities of kindness,curiosity and trust to break an isolation habit. Try something new. Join at least one or two groups that might promote feelings of involvement and connection.
Flexible balance is the key to maintaining healthy social involvement without resentment or burnout.
Mindful Home Practice: Check your calendar regularly to assess over or under-busyness. Check in with yourself in regard to enthusiam and energy and have the courage to make necessary adjustments. A core value exercise can be helpful. Reflect on these examples: compassion, generosity,honesty,loyalty,courage, self-reliance,strength,personal growth,tranquility,exploration,nature Find your own set of values and let your community involvement reflect these attributes.
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