Today”s Friday Five guest post is by Dr. Indu Srinivasan Partha. Indu is an avid reader, writer and a clinician. For me, though, Indu has a certain “Indu-ness” that has inspired me many times over, “the ability to show up and get to work” (thanks Chuck Close), no matter what the distractions or the circumstances are. Whether it is a discussion about a Bollywood flick or a blog post, she not only shows up, but also is completely present and gives it her all. Hope that you enjoy her Friday Five.
Let it Go
Believe it or not, I am not referring to the song from “Frozen.” In fact, I am probably one of the few people who have never seen the movie! I am talking about letting go of baggage, both physical and psychological, that are weighing me down. Clothes are being purged and donated. Piles of clutter are being sorted and tossed. I am trying to learn how to let go of my need to be in control of everything (and unfortunately, everyone) around me. I have realized that control is overrated; more likely than not, the need for control will drive a wedge between two people and lead to an ongoing feeling of discontent when reality doesn’t meet expectations. I’ve made progress, but have a long way to go yet. I’ll keep fighting the good fight.
First Loves
No worries. No plans to leave my hubby! During my break from work, I have been fortunate to have some opportunities to rediscover my first love: writing. The time off between two jobs has been unexpectedly longer than anticipated. At first casino online I freaked out (see above: need for control). And then I saw it as a blessing. As a clinician, I don’t have many chances to write for work or for pleasure (charting doesn’t count, surely), so I have jumped at chances that have come my way to write as a guest blogger for family and friends. It is so important for all of us to remember who we once were, and what we once loved, before being burdened with the myriad of responsibilities that come with adulthood. I hope to keep up with my writing practice in the 2015, whether it be as a blogger, in a journal, or even writing letters to my daughter in college.
Making a Statement
I’ll admit it. I’m getting older. I realize that youth is no longer on my side when it comes to appearance. I love finding quick and easy ways to amp up my look, allowing me to be youthfully age-appropriate, if there is such a thing. Appearance is not the most important thing in life, but I daresay we all have a little more spring to our step when we know we are presenting our best self. My current go to moves for looking a bit more “together?” A great red lipstick (currently loving Maybelline Sensational “Very Cherry”), statement necklaces (J. Crew Factory on sale items), scarves, and knee high boots.
Be Firm
Exercise. I know I need to do it. I’ve never been a fan. I have more time on my hands now, and therefore, fewer excuses to be inactive. I have really been enjoying my classes at my local Pure Barre Studio. I’ve discovered muscle groups I didn’t know existed, and have enjoyed seeing the changes in my body slowly emerge. I now really understand the reasoning behind cross training. Walking and hiking alone were not enough to transform my body. I have benefitted from the resistance training in these classes, and love knowing that I am stronger than I have been before.
Seeing is Believing
Ready for the least profound favorite? It’s my discovery of NETFLIX. Yes, you read that right! I am not addicted, but let’s say that I enjoyed some wonderfully peaceful and pleasurable moments during my “Hart of Dixie” marathon, and that there is nothing like a Bollywood flick to help while away the time on the treadmill. A harmless, mindless, but totally rejuvenating use of time. In moderation, of course.
Image Credit; Fanpop