Returning to Your Inner Foundation
Over the last three years, we’ve had some uncomfortable realisations. To put it politely, we’ve discovered that most of the institutions we relied on, and most of the individuals we trusted for leadership, never had our best interests at heart. Many of us stepped up then, wanting to make a difference. That’s what the PHA is all about; a healthier, happier life – for the people, by the people.
No matter how brilliantly we’re co-creating this beautiful new world, though, there are times when our efforts seem insignificant. Feeling demoralised or unworthy is entirely natural, given the mountain we’re climbing.
When the overwhelm hits, it’s a signal to go within. Return to your centre and check your foundations. On those days when you can’t build outside, fortify the inside. This could involve education, physical activity, spiritual endeavour or simply taking time to love and be kind to yourself.
Law
What’s law got to do with self-care?
Law gives us freedom and prevents chaos. It holds society together because it is the responsibility of every man and woman to set it and uphold it. Learning law helps you appreciate yourself and your place in the world.
We’ve been taught to fear law – much as we’ve been taught to fear authority. But law isn’t about others having authority over you; it’s about claiming authority over yourself.
Rather than the stiff, dry discipline for brainy types that we thought it was, law is among the most spiritual disciplines you can pursue. When enough of us engage with it, the world will become a freer, more peaceful place.
The fundamentals are extremely simple and easy to learn – they could and should be taught in school. Law is the Kung Fu of sovereignty and understanding it enables you to stand up to every bully in the system.
Presence
Meditation, on the other hand, isn’t really the spiritual pursuit that many consider it to be. It is simply a method of accessing mental quiet. Once that silence is accessed, then spirituality can begin.
Many of our most difficult days are created, not from events outside ourselves, but from our judgements of them. Only inner work can address our perceptions.
“I can’t possibly meditate. My mind’s too busy!”
It’s true, the mind is a bit of a monkey. But meditation is the art of giving the monkey a job to do so that peace has the opportunity to arise. It may not be easy but it is very, very simple! Give it a try.
Body Training
We are spirits piloting avatars of flesh and blood. Whether we consider ourselves to be physical/athletic body types or not, the avatar responds positively to ‘effort’.
There are many ways to be physical that don’t involve going to a gym. Combining physicality with the outdoors is the most rewarding combination. Rambling, gardening, foraging, wild swimming, dancing and camping are ways of exercising whilst avoiding a workout mindset.
But if you want to start pushing the avatar, it will love you for doing so. Martial arts, Ashtanga yoga, climbing, kayaking, free weights, callisthenics and running are a few ways to strengthen the body and feel alive.
Recently, some friends were going running in a local group. There was someone with them who looked quite mature. “Who’s that?” one asked. “Oh, that’s Angela – started running when she was 60. She’s 75 now and a British Masters competitor.”
People, it’s never too late.
Cultivation
Gardening is uncomplicated magic. Fresh air. Exercise. Time with nature. And lots of healthy produce as your reward. Growing, cooking and eating your own food makes you feel good inside.
If you’re short of space, you can grow crops in pots and still reap a decent harvest. Or you can apply for an allotment. Perhaps, between a group of friends, you can find some unused land and create a community garden.
Growing your own is an ongoing experiment with inevitable ups and downs. But there’s something reflective and simple about doing it. You cultivate yourself as you work with the soil.
Once you begin, you might be tempted to take it further; homesteading, self-sufficiency, living off-grid…
Most importantly
Write this somewhere so that you have a touchstone for difficult days:
No matter what’s going on around us, the only thing that we can really alter is ourselves. Be kind within. Love yourself, allow yourself the space and the time to grow.
That’s how we change the world; one personal liberation at a time.
Resources
Law – https://thesovereignsway.com/law-for-mankind-options/?link=39237
Meditation – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjIHdXdpWgY
Running – https://www.verywellfit.com/how-to-start-running-the-absolute-beginners-guide-2911191
Cultivation and homesteading – https://independentbackyard.com/my-book/
José Lacey