One Resolution for 2009

Qigong #3
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It seems that everywhere I turn, someone is talking about making resolutions for this year. I have been struggling with what I want to do for 2009. Rather than make a resolution in the so called usual way, I have decided that I want to clarify my goals begun last year.

In my last entry, I listed three things that could be done. Reflecting on last year’s successes was my first suggestion. One goal that I had set for myself last September was to exercise daily for thirty- forty minutes to improve my health, mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. To do this I started planning each night when I would exercise the next day. I wanted to be able to journal that I achieved 100% success each month. You might say that this is an impossible goal to accomplish. Yet I have reached over 90% of my goal and am hoping that I will reach 100% in the near future. I also realize that I have to maintain that goal every month. My biggest insight is that dreaming big helps me reach for my highest potential. I count my successes, not my failures. It seems easier to remember the negatives and not the positives. When it comes to my exercise goals, I have sometimes found it to be somewhat challenging when I travel because I have to find space where I can exercise. I have learned to be very imaginative about this.

Over the past ten years, I have been taking classes in Chow QiGong meditative exercises based on ancient Chinese healing practices. They consist of one grounding exercise, four warm ups and the Precious Eight exercises. Qi means breath and Gong means work. The focus is on breathing deeply, in and out, as I slowly and meditatively complete the exercises. Each one works a different part of the body. For example, the neck rotation helps release any stiffness or stress I have. If I have a headache, I use this exercise to ease any blocked energy in my neck or forehead. No pills for me! It works every time.

I find that I feel very creative after I finish these exercises. I feel grounded in my life, and my health is improved. I am relaxed but energized to meet each day. Because I feel better physically, I am happy doing my usual daily activities with my family and friends. I feel connected to myself, to my Divine Source and to the universe.

In similar fashion, you can reflect on your success in the past year. Were you happy working on that project? Was it making your life better by building up your self confidence in areas of work or relationships? How does it make you feel? Do you want to continue it or do something new?

You may answer that you were not successful last year. You tried any number of things and you feel discouraged. Can you identify what is making you unhappy? Are you willing to name it, think about it and take action to change it? If you would like to know where to start in terms of taking the necessary action, and making the necessary changes you need to live a more fulfilling life, then you may be interested in reading my book, Quest for Happiness. It gives you a practical three step approach to achieving happiness in your life with a special focus on enriching your significant relationships. Feel free to give a comment in this blog sharing your insights and reflections.

I wish you a Peaceful and Happy 2009.

Until next time,

Bride