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Monday, June 23, 2008

Day 29: Staying Calm In the Face of Adversity


One of my favorite things to do when I travel by air is to buy a good book or maybe a mindless fashion magazine. My most recent purchase? Jon Kabat-Zinn's Wherever You Go There You Are. Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life. The author's goal is to help people be more present in their own lives and not to be, as one of my coachees once said to me, "sleepwalkers" in their own lives. The book is also meant to assist readers develop a simple meditation practice that will help them remain calm when around them might be chaos.

Tonight, I find myself needing to put into practice the lessons contained therein. Earlier today, my doctor found a lump in my breast. It is probably nothing, she said calmly. While I didn't completely freak out, I also knew that it could also probably be something. Until I go for further testing, I won't know for sure. The waiting game begins.

Of course I'm scared, but I can't control the curve-balls that are thrown my way. I do, however, know that I have a say in how I react to the things that happen in my life. I can awfulize the situation, blame life for disturbing my present state of peace, & eat poorly or miss my workouts in retribution, or I can acknowledge what is happening (including my feelings), and continue to focus on my goals and on all those parts of my life that bring me joy. I choose to do the latter.

I confess, the last thing I felt like doing today was to eat every 2-3 hours. I just wasn't hungry and the thought of food was, in all honesty, displeasing. Yet, my commitment to take good care of myself no matter what happens in my life, made me bring it in the kitchen. I also really brought it this morning with Ten Minute Trainer's Cardio segment, Chest, Shoulders and Triceps, followed by Abripper-X.

Tomorrow, I hit day 30 with an even stronger sense that my (our) transformation extends beyond bringing it on the mat and in the kitchen to achieve a beach body.

Bring it!

Barbie, PhD

4 comments:

Yominay said...

Barb: you are a real live example of inner strength and and being present in the moment. I so admire that in you. You continue to be the best coach, mentor and role model for so many folks, especially now, when you reveal how you are choosing to face the challenge head-on. An inspiration by example, that's what you are. Thanks for sharing a very personal experience with us.
Naomi

Anonymous said...

That's my girl. Love you, Barb.

KR

CoachBarbie said...

Thanks for making me tear up with your kind words, Naomi. ;) I just don't want to pretend that I'm perfect or for people to think that I am. Life happens and staying strong while dealing with life's obstacles is truly reachable for all of us. Hugs, baby! Barbie

I love you, too, KR. ;)

Barbie

Heather B. said...

Barbie,

I will be thinking of you until your results come back. Also, I am a true believer in the power of positive thougths and how it helps for our health as well. So, as you focus on your goals, remember your goals and the positive thoughts that get you to reach those goals will also help your overall health! I so agree with Naimi, thanks for always being there and being a friend, leader, and true inspiration!

Heather