In a recent episode of the Calm Creative Podcast, hosted by Volta Volotion Smith, we explored the art of embracing calmness and reevaluating our relationship with caffeine. These topics are integral to our mental and physical well-being, and I’m excited to share some of the insights we discussed in this blog post.
Our fast-paced world often leaves our minds racing from one task to the next, serving as a distraction from deeper issues. We find it challenging to embrace moments of stillness, often filling our days with endless activities. While this is a common coping mechanism, it prevents us from exploring our inner worlds and emotions – and this is where art and creativity come into play.
A significant part of my work involves encouraging individuals to examine why they shy away from moments of calm. What are they avoiding, and why does it make them uncomfortable? These questions apply to mental, emotional aspects, and also to creative pursuits. Discovering the root causes of our unease is the first step towards personal transformation.
I recently worked with a client who had spent her life in a whirlwind of busyness. An overachiever involved in numerous organizations and leadership positions, she rarely had downtime. Even when she did, she’d fill it with various activities, leaving no room for stillness. I asked her what would happen if she intentionally scheduled a block of time with nothing to do, just sitting there without any specific agenda. She found the idea unsettling, her discomfort revealing the deeper issues she needed to address.
We decided that she should begin by scheduling short periods, around 10 to 20 minutes, with nothing planned. In these pockets of calm, she could explore mindfulness, perhaps through meditation. This practice would help her pay attention to her inner thoughts and emotions, gradually becoming more comfortable in the quietude.
It’s crucial to understand that discomfort is not necessarily a bad thing. It’s a signal that change is necessary. Too often, we view discomfort as something to avoid, yet it’s a guide pointing us toward the aspects of our lives that require attention and transformation. This is where art, creativity, and mindfulness can be powerful tools in navigating our journey to self-discovery.
Shifting our mindset is vital to embracing calmness. The societal pressure to stay perpetually busy can become overwhelming. We tend to associate our self-worth with accomplishments and productivity. However, self-care and calmness are accomplishments in themselves. By embracing moments of tranquility, we demonstrate a profound level of self-care and self-love, recognizing that we are inherently valuable, regardless of our achievements.
Another aspect of my work involves the relationship between nutrition and mental health. One food that can significantly impact mental well-being is caffeine. For those dealing with anxiety, caffeine can exacerbate their condition. The caffeine habit can be indicative of a deeper issue—our bodies should ideally have enough energy naturally. By relying on caffeine for an energy boost, we’re masking the underlying problems.
However, I don’t necessarily advocate eliminating caffeine entirely. Instead, I encourage individuals to question why they depend on it. We should ask ourselves why we feel the need for a caffeine fix every morning. It’s essential to address the root causes, such as inadequate sleep, high stress levels, or nutritional deficiencies. As we delve into these issues and take care of our bodies, we may find that our dependence on caffeine naturally wanes.
Our nutrition directly affects our mental health in countless ways. The way we nourish our bodies and minds is a crucial factor in our overall well-being. Sometimes we turn to food as a coping mechanism, using it to deal with stress, emotions, and the challenges of life. This pattern can lead to issues like emotional eating and weight gain, which can then have an impact on our mental and emotional health. What’s essential is recognizing that the foods we consume, as well as our relationship with them, play a significant role in our mental and emotional well-being.
Tune in into this insightful podcast episode and gain deeper insights into embracing calmness and reevaluating our relationship with caffeine. Listen to the Podcast Here. 🎧