Resolutions and Addiction

(Post share from the IRATAD Blog)

Addiction is about not being able to maintain boundaries, follow though on commitments and being able to self-soothe in a healthy way. When we are unable to say no and follow through on the no......(such as over-commiting ourselves to things), when we are unwilling to sacrifice an extra hour of sleep on a cold morning to go to the gym, or when we say "just one more time" or I will start this next week, we are engaging in a dangerous addictive cycle. We become stuck in the same behaviors to which Sisyphus was condemned by the ancient Greek Gods. His punishment for crimes against the Gods, was to eternally roll a large boulder up a hill and upon reaching the summit of the hill with great exertion, the boulder would roll to the bottom of the hill. This was considered by all to be not only backbreaking work, but the added frustration of the fruitlessness of the effort in the end.

Losing Weight, Rock Bottom, Addictions, and Resolutions

(Post share from the IRATAD Blog)

To better care four ourselves we need to pay attention to our physical, mental, social, and spiritual health and strive for a healthy balance amongst each of these dimensions. Caring for our physical health involves more than just exercising. We need to get adequate amounts of sleep, eat a healthy diet, and maintain good hygiene. Caring for our mental health includes reducing stress, finding healthy and positive experiences in our daily life, being mindful of the present situation, and doing things that help us stay mentally sharp. To care for our social needs we must engage in healthy activities with people who build us up and are positive influences on us; social isolation can lead to unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. Finally, caring for our spiritual health involves being able to see beyond ourselves and see the big picture. Spirituality involves being hopeful, recognizing our values, and doing things for the benefit of others. People may connect with spirituality by reading religious or inspirational texts, meditation or prayer, or by being in nature.