The importance of play is something I have only learned in recent years. I remember, when I got out of college, I thought it was perfectly normal to have a life of working, going to the gym, seeing friends and family and reading when I had alone time. And was I wrong – leading a life like that did not make me feel nourished at all. Now I think of life very differently. There’s work, relationships with loved ones, and having a relationship with myself, which include moving physically, whether through going to the gym or a yoga class, but also includes so much more and is constantly evolving. Play is always part of that for me too.
One thing I loved about this chapter is the concept of flowing through life, like water, such that obstacles no longer matter. I really loved that image. It was also a wonderful reminder that as hard as things can be in life, there is a way to incorporate that feeling of flow into everything we do.
To check out other people’s perspectives on treats, see Jamie Ridler’s online bookclub, The Next Chapter on The Joy Diet: Ten Daily Practices for a Happier Life by Martha Beck.
General Disclosures & Disclaimers
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I agree with the water analogy. Learning to just go with the flow is an important process. Letting go.
Water is cleansing. It is nourishing. It is capable of holding small things and carrying large things. Whatever may come our way, we can just flow and let it take us to where we need to be.
I think you hit the nail on the head when you talk about having a relationship with yourself. I think that in a nutshell has been what this Joy Diet has been about so far. And that relationship with self is definitely something to flow with!
i love how you incorporate play in everyday. that's really what life is all about! hugs darling!!