A Source for Sanity: H.A.L.T. 3/8/12

         It is reassuring knowing God cares for us.

         He does, more than we can love ourselves.  It is even better, appreciating this fact on the exper-iential level, not just cognitively.

        We are also fortunate when enjoying the benefits of a supportive network.  They are our Balcony People.  

       We enjoy the richness of life when taking care of ourselves.  Ourselves.  It is easy, thinking of everyone else's needs, neglecting our feelings, what we want.  When we do, it should be no wonder why we are irritated, depressed.

        All negative feelings are the result an unmet need.  This is today's subject.  In the midst of life's demands, it critical making time for ourselves.

      Continually run-ning at 9,000 rpms isn't healthy.

       Part of personal growth is learning to do less during stressful times.  Less than we are capable of achieving.  There will be times when we may not be as efficient as we desire.

       But we'll be more effective.

       Making time to take care of ourselves will give us more bounce to life.  We get through life with more energy, zest.  We are making it more likely that we will thrive.

       We want to make time for personal growth.  One way is having a Quiet Time.  For many, it is best having it early in the morning.  We invest in this time even though the urgencies of life scream for attention, wanting to pull us away from nurturing ourselves. 

       Secluded time for prayer and reflection is investing in ourselves despite the e-mails, text messages and phone calls beseeching for our attention. It is ignoring imperious demands that implore us to scurry on, not making time to strengthen ourselves.

      They insist we ignore our mental and spiritual needs.  But it is more vital, donning the armor of Quiet Time.  It is best doing so in the morning, before the day's battles consumes our thoughts and the emotional fiber of our being.

       Studying, praying, meditating.  They form our Quiet Time.  Reading uplifting material, listening to inspiring music, too.

       Going for a walk at a park keeps us fresh.  They are ways of strengthening ourselves.  These possibilities are better than TV, playing video games, or surfing the internet.

       Turn off your computer.  Invest in yourself.  I'll be here when you return.

       You are back?  I'll continue.

       Conversations with friends.  Doing community service.  These activities are healthy for our mind, emotions and spirit.  The following quote is also helpful to keep in mind during stressful times.

HALT.  Don't get too hungry, angry, lonely or tired.  I use this reminder to help me set healthy limits for myself, which I never learned as a a child. In the past, I often believed I should be able to go for days without enough food or sleep.   I also tested the limits of my ability to handle enormous doses of stress and isolation without tending to my own emotional or physical needs. 

I've learned a gentler, simpler way of caring for myself.  I find it of great benefit to have a brief list of the most basic areas in which I neglect my own well-being: nourishment, emotional wellness, fellowship, and physical rest.   

First, is my stomach rumbling?   Then I need to stop what I'm doing and eat some food.  Am I too angry about the trivial details of my life?   If so,  I can take a break and punch a pillow or engage in some physical exercise [or process these issues with a trusted, emotionally healthy friend].  Am I lonely?  I could get together with friends or call someone [who accepts me unconditionally]. Finally, am I so tired that I can't keep my eyes open? Then it's time to lie down for a nap or a good night's sleep. 

When I feel stressed, I'll stop to check whether my basic needs are being met. We can watch for the need to HALT and give ourselves special attention when we are feeling  Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired.

              We have a liveliness, an excitement for life when we take care of ourselves.  When we do, we enjoy life more.  We will also have an Attitude of Gratitude, along with greater sanity.