How changing my mindset has improved my daily living
Opinion
By: Shlomo Fishman
Capital Recreation is in business to make recreation accessible to all. I am not here to tell you the what, the who, and the when. I am here to support and encourage your positive behaviors. I am a Certified Recreational Therapist (CTRS) breaking down barriers to leisure and recreation participation. This blog is here as a tool to spread my personal thoughts and ideas. But most of all, to create community!
We all have busy lives. We all have things that need to be done. Many times, we need to rely on others for help. Other times, we can do things alone, in peace, and solitude. When going at things alone or individual pursuit it is easier to control the outcome. You’re the one doing the task, and you’re the only one who is controlling the outcome. Pretty straight forward. Now, what about when working in a team environment or relying on others to do their part? When dolling out responsibilities to others, there’s an element of unknown and the need to trust that the task(s) is going to get done (given that the task was given to the correct person). For myself, even if the task does get completed it could be challenging for me to feel satisfied with the outcome. I need to work extra hard to trust in the work of others, and that the task will get done. When I don’t feel in control, it could seem very chaotic inside my mind. Which is why I deploy three things regularly to help me. They are one breath, physical exercise, and communication.
One breath: I start each day with a sequence of breathing. This takes me anywhere between 5 seconds to 2 minutes. I take this time to listen to my body and just be. I focus on my breath and only my breath. I feel my rising and lowering abdomen with each inhalation and exhalation. I see myself staying calm and relaxed — no matter the situation. When faced with a challenging in my day, all I need is one deep inhale and one full exhale to be my cue and reminder that everything will be okay, and I have the tools to do anything.
Physical exercise: Participating or practicing regularly in physical activity has many benefits. For me, it is another tool in my arsenal to feel accomplished and that I can do hard things. It is a reminder that if I want to continue moving upward, sometimes I might hit some bumps along the way. When a hard task comes my way, I remind myself that ‘I CAN DO THIS’.
Communication: The final pillar is communication. I find that talking through my challenges with a trusted mentor or peer, I can respond better for future adverse events. Knowing that I am not on an island all alone, I can maintain calm cool composure even if I don’t think everything will be okay. Not everything will be okay – but knowing that I have someone I could trust makes things a lot easier.
Even as I emerge from my pandemic bubble – I at times find it challenging to do some of the ‘simple’ tasks in my day. When I deploy my one breath, participate in physical activity, and have trusted peers to talk with, it gives me the ability to work through any challenges. Not just to survive — but to thrive!!
Last but not least, I always love hearing from you and your personal journey. Share your moments of growth and success on social media using the hashtag #shlomotrained
Until next time – peace, and virtual fist bump going your way!
Capital Recreation 