Embracing Resistance: The Path to Strength & Wellness
In the depths of resistance lies our greatest potential. Just as we build physical strength by pushing through resistance, we can cultivate mental and emotional resilience, too. Despite knowing and sharing this gospel, for the past few months, I’ve been stuck in a battle with my own resistance to writing this post.
I’ve been so comfortable just going through the motions of my busy schedule, that any time I have to work on nurturing my own community is met with quick justification to just do nothing. Our minds have an insane power over our ability to take action, especially when confronted with something challenging... or even worse, something that just scares the shit out of you.
Step 1: Acknowledging Resistance
When we can take a far enough step back and see the self-sabotage caused by our own resistance, rather than be judgmental or angry with ourselves, we must invite a sense of curiosity to dig deeper into the reasons behind our resistance.
For me, it was that internal voice saying, “I’m too busy,” “it’s too late,” “I finally have some time to myself, I should just rest and watch TV,” the list of mind fuckery goes on. It was a lot of excuses masking the real reason behind my resistance: FEAR.
Fear of judgment. Fear of being “found out” that I don’t know what the fuck I’m talking about. Fear of failing as a business owner. Fear of never being good enough. Just your classic list of subconscious fears we tend to ignore by comforting ourselves with various coping mechanisms. Whatever the cause, resistance is a universal experience, one that we must confront if we want to grow.
Step 2: Exploring Coping Mechanisms
When faced with resistance, we often seek comfort in familiar coping mechanisms. Most of the time, these acts are subconscious and something we’ve done to self-soothe or regulate our emotions for as long as we can remember.
Common coping mechanisms
Eating too much; or not eating enough
Drinking alcohol
Smoking weed
Hallucinogens
Smoking cigarettes
Constant stimulation from podcasts and/or social media
Being sedentary, or sleeping more than necessary
Frivolously spending money
Aggression and anger towards others
Excessive socialization; or isolation from others
Although these acts may feel good in the moment, they only serve to mask our underlying issues, leaving us more vulnerable in the long run.
Instead, let's explore healthier alternatives. Choosing nourishing foods, engaging in physical activity, or practicing mindfulness can provide sustainable ways to manage stress and cultivate inner strength.
Step 3: Techniques for Coping with Stress
Here are some practical techniques to help you push past moments of resistance:
Physical Activity
Engage in regular exercise, whether it's walking, resistance training, or yoga, to invigorate your body and mind.
Mindfulness Practices
Embrace yoga, meditation, or breath work to cultivate inner peace and connect with your true self.
Healthy Habits
Prioritize nourishing foods, adequate sleep, and self-care practices to support your physical and mental well-being.
Step 4: Embracing Discomfort
Rather than shying away from discomfort, let us embrace it as a catalyst for growth. By leaning into our fears and confronting our inner demons, we can unleash our true potential and live life to the fullest. Remember, the path to strength and wellness is not always easy, but it is always worth it.
To physically grow stronger, our bodies need to endure enough stress and resistance to literally damage the muscle fibers. It’s then through rest and recovery (and lots of protein 😆) our bodies can repair themselves to come back stronger than before. The mind requires this same recipe. We have to trudge through the hard and heavy shit to build that resilience and feel that accomplishment for what you have done for yourself.
As you reflect on your own journey, ask yourself: What choices will you make in the face of resistance? Will you succumb to fear and inertia, or will you rise above adversity and embrace the challenges that lie ahead? The power to shape your destiny lies within you. Choose wisely, for the journey towards strength and wellness begins with one small step.
