Let's chat about the beauty and blessings of solitude and introspection -

Let's chat about the beauty and blessings of solitude and introspection -

I wanted to discuss some of the unexpected treasures that isolation and being alone with your own thoughts can bring.

I know many of you including myself had other plans, things to do, boxes to check off our to do list. Suddenly we are asked to come to terms with a greater more important awareness outside of ourselves. Now we find ourselves at home concerned about our basic needs. We worry for the safety and well-being of our family, friends, having enough money to pay the bills, food in the fridge and things we need to thrive. Many of us are not used to sitting still and having to slow down. I can honestly tell you I used to live a life where it felt like every moment of the day was spoken for. I was literally running from one place to another, working, helping others, squeezing in chores and running myself ragged.

I decided that life no longer spoke to who I was and I left it all behind. I suddenly went from having a full schedule to having absolutely nothing to do outside of work. I felt lost and at a complete loss for how I would fill the hours in the day.

First of all, it is ok to feel uncomfortable, frustrated and not understand why you feel this way. If emotions come up, express them, let the tears fall. I have clients that describe a lump in their throat, a feeling of anxiety, many don't realize that is emotional energy coming up for release. If you struggle to cry due to having become used to repressing emotions here are a couple of tips that helped me greatly:

1) Put on some songs that touch you deeply. You know the ones. For me, an old-time favourite (no judgment please lol) is the song 'It only hurts when I am breathing' by Shania Twain. Find a safe space where you won't be disturbed. In the shower, or run a bath if needed. Play the song as many times as you need to, give yourself permission and the grace to cry. It is the most healing ritual you can do.

2) Watch a movie that gets you all in the feels. This is another way that has worked for a good cry. Know that they don't have to be sad movies! They can be tender, feel-good movies about the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. Or a good love story. One movie I watched recently that I enjoyed was 'Nights in Rodanthe' starring Richard Gere and Diane Lane. Yes, I cried lots!

I learned much about my own strength during moments of reflection and being on my own. Think back to a particularly challenging time in your life. One you didn't think you could overcome. You may have spent time on your own, isolating yourself from the world. This helped you to soul search, didn’t it? It is when you silenced the noise of the world that you were able to hear what your soul had to say and know the right path forward. This is a gift only those who learn the importance of spending time alone find. Look at how popular walking El Camino in Spain has become! This is your chance to find solitude at home and in your own backyard.

For many of us, our life will change after society starts to get back on its feet economically. Some have received their lay-off notice, others are uncertain about whether their industry will survive or whether their small business can withstand the pressure. During times of transition and uncertainty, I have questioned my value to society. So, it is natural to feel out of sorts.

Who will you be if you do not hold the current job title you have? If you have recently come out of a relationship, who are you without being part of a family unit or couple? Who are you beyond all the perceptions, titles and roles society has told you are essential to being successful in the world? What value do you bring beyond all these constructs?

I will share something with you, those questions were ones I had to grapple with very recently. Through tears and a great feeling of loss, I sensed a strong voice telling me: You have had it wrong all along. I was worthy, was born worthy and was born with gifts and qualities to share that no education, job or societal conditioning could give me. This is the same for you! You are perfect as you stand, and you came prepared to meet whatever challenge comes your way. It is in solitude and isolation we remember and reconnect to this stronger side of us.

You were born an artist with the ability to create your own life by design. Don Miguel Ruiz beautifully illustrates this point in detail in his book 'The Voice of Knowledge'. We have the opportunity through adversity to create the life of our dreams.

In the next few days, I will post an article on how to take advantage of this time and provide tips on reconnecting with yourself. If you are struggling during this time or know someone that is please send them my way.

I am also offering FREE half-hour sessions by Zoom or Skype to those working on the front lines providing essential services or medical care around the world. I speak fluent English and Spanish and will assist as many as my schedule will allow.

Sending you all much love and healing.

Samantha