There are times in our lives when we want or need to make a change. Frequently we develop a plan and then implement it, or attempt to, and then assess whether or not it worked. There is a saying that many people are familiar with that goes something like “Don’t just sit there, do something!” This can be great advice when people feel stuck and need to break out of a rut. It can also help when we are unsure what to do or which way to go. Just starting something and beginning to take steps can frequently help us to find clarity and break out of unhelpful cycles. If this works for you, GREAT!
While just starting off can often help, during the times that it repeatedly doesn’t, taking time to sit quietly can sometimes provide clarity. In our current day lives of smart phones, texting, phone calls, email, web surfing, Facebook, etc. it is common to not have any truly quiet time in our lives. This constant background of chatter can cloud our thinking and keep us from paying attention to our internal peace and strength.
Taking a few minutes on a regular basis to just sit quietly with no expectations other than to sit quietly can provide moments of insight and clarity. Some might call this meditation. Others may call it taking a break. Whatever you call it, you might be surprised what kinds of thoughts, ideas, and solutions you have when you allow yourself a short break from being “plugged in". This is called taking care of you. No one can do that but you.
Smoking gives some people an excuse to take a break, but the kick from nicotine isn't really relaxing. It has just become paired with the good behavior of 'unplugging to recharge'. Giving yourself permission to spend a few minutes each day quietly relaxed and unplugged will gradually rebuild the capacity for truly relaxing and regenerating without the false cue for a smoke.
