I have been thinking a lot about our comfort zones. How we settle into something, a way of living, some routine, a certain group of people, a job. Predictability is appealing. It can give us a feeling of safety and surety that all is well. Routine is the same way. In many areas of my life I like knowing that I can count on certain things. That my son is healthy, our loved ones are healthy and that I am healthy are most important to me. That I have a place I call home and a place I call work tie for second.
I have also noticed that our comfort zones are filled with thoughts, beliefs and actions that we may have out grown. What we needed for comfort as a child changes as we age. What brings us comfort at ten is different than what brings us comfort at sixty. So, it is a good idea to re-evaluate and re-prioritize what is truly important and what needs to be discarded.
As we get older, comfort zones seem to get smaller. We tend to rely on routine and predictability more, less likely to be flexible in our thinking and more likely to forget or give up on things that used to bring us joy. Our bodies may age, but the quality of our aging is up to us. Doing less is not a result of our aging. Our aging is a result of doing less. Brush off the cobwebs and find yourself again. Do something you always wanted to do. Read that book that you never had time to read. Visit friends. Join a club. Go dancing. Get up early and watch the sunrise. Your life is up to you. Go and enjoy it.
Here’s to the Health of your Life.
Looking for more? Explore the Healthy Habits Blog, read our acupuncture FAQ, or book an appointment with Michelle Manto at Berkshire Acupuncture & Wellness in Great Barrington, MA.