The universe is expanding with every moment. Our bodies are changing and growing older. It is a subtle expansion, one we cannot even perceive, but it is still happening.
Just like the universe we, too, have the opportunity to expand with every moment. Every experience, every second, is an opportunity for us to grow and learn. We can use the time and space we have to explore our selves, our bodies and our lives. Or we can choose to stay stagnant in an existence that is growing whether we choose to accept it or not.
What are you creating with the passing of time? What are you filling that new space with?
Here are some ideas for creating more space and filling that space with joy and love:
1. First, clear out the junk; de-clutter your life.
- De-clutter your living space and work space. Minimize your belongings, papers, clothes, knick-knacks, books/magazines, and even furniture. Let go of those things that you are holding on to but that don’t serve a purpose in your life right now.
- Minimize the junk that you put into your body. Cut down on the food and substances that may taste good at first but drain you and make you feel sluggish or even sick. You know the ones. Usually they are the processed, sugary, or overly salty foods and beverages.
- Limit the mindless activities that prevent you from being present. Cut down on the amount of mindless TV you watch or games you play; those activities that you do to pass the time or numb you out.
- Lighten your schedule. Say no to obligations and activities that don’t excite you or that cut into time for yourself. Limit the amount of busyness in your schedule that doesn’t really serve a purpose in your life.
- Release relationships that don’t serve you. Let go of those relationships in your life - friendships or romances - that are unhealthy, those that prevent you from growing or becoming a better person.
- Let go of negative self-talk. See if you can cut down on your use of negative self-talk, both consciously and unconsciously. Try to limit the words you use or thoughts that you have that are negative towards yourself and your body.
2. Second, fill your newfound space with joy.
- Use the belongings you love. Life is not about the possessions we have but what we do have, we use daily. So, find those items, clothes, and belongings that make you happy and actually use them! Wear that outfit that makes you feel great, use your favorite mug or dish more often.
- Fill your body with good, nourishing food. Figure out what foods and drinks satisfy your hunger, which are delicious and healthy. Experiment and find new options that work for you.
- Spend your time mindfully. Use the new found time in your schedule to explore creative hobbies or learn something new. Do things that make you happy and inspired. Schedule alone time and spend it doing only things that inspire you. Spend extra time with loved ones that lift you up and fill you with joy.
- Invite positivity. Use the freed-up space in your brain for positive words, phrases, and thoughts. Increase the amount of positive things you say to yourself. Congratulate yourself more for accomplishments and hard work.
3. Observe, learn, readjust and repeat. These are just some suggestions to get you started. It can take experimentation and trial and error to figure out where you can create space in your life and how to fill that new space with love and joy. What works for you?
I would love to hear from you. Has there been a time in your life that you have let go of something (physical or emotional) that wasn’t serving you? How did that feel and what did you learn? What space were you able to create and how did you invite in joy?
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