The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
I am currently understanding 'taking care of ME' by observing very strictly anti-HALT
Hungry- I find pleasure in cooking and selecting healthy food--- my body seems to absorb this thankfully, I feel energetic and enjoy the cooking process...gives me creative ME time
Angry- I'm tired to be angry really, it has been exhausting. So every time some powerful emotion like that comes up, I try to choose a different way, like going for a walk, and talk to friendly people or play with my dog, who makes me laugh. or sitting in meditation and letting it pass...it does wonders, simply breathing. I up my 'meditation' time
Lonely- I try to enjoy more the company of people, be it friends or complete strangers. ANd when I'm alone, I try to focus on something productive. My last panic attack came on Friday evening. I had the option to go to a party, but chose to sit at home, not to dwell in loneliness, but I just felt like not going there, parties mean more abuse of alcohol and drugs and I just can't handle that environment right now. I decided to stay home, make dinner, write on my book and go to an early sleep. What a difference the morning after, wow, i felt so much recharged and motivated.
Tired- well early sleep and early morning is a good practice for me right now. Late night is good when I'm productive, but not when I'm thinking too much. My body needs to be at its best heathy status now, I still remember the sleepless nights I put myself through with the A, how much dysfunctional I became.
Healthy body-healthy mind is the focus on my practice right now. Need a lot of adjustments but I realize how beneficial that is to how I perceive the world around me.
Yesterday I ran in a public race, for peace. I felt great, being with other, for other, being myself, running, present, connected with all those strangers. i started the day with a big smile. despite the storm the night before. progress!
Thanks for the share, Tortuga. Your program practice is very apparent today. Glad you're feeling more peaceful and productive than just a few short days ago. You're evidence of what the program practice promises.