We can talk to, preach to or help guide others (our children, family, significant other or friends) but we can not make them change their bad habits or behaviors, this is their responsibility. They have to figure out why they are making the choices that they are, many of them are unconscious habits, or programmed behaviors. We can see the destructive habits and communicate our concern, share what we know but it ultimately comes down to them making a change and learning their own lessons. I know the destructive habits I had as a teen and into my 20’s and 30’s. Having family express their concern meant nothing at the time. Going to counselors, AA classes, losing my drivers license didn’t do anything to help me. I know why now, because of pain, underlying pain, lack of self love and destructive habits go hand and hand.
I had to find out for myself, seeing the warning signs that my body was giving me. When I got pregnant, both times, I gave up all my vices because of thinking about the baby growing inside of me, caring more about this miracle inside of me than myself. My addiction became food, gaining 70 lbs with my first child and 80 lbs with my second, food was my comfort. Yet, it wasn’t until I started diving into yoga and loving how it made me FEEL, the bad habits naturally fell away, one by one. Becoming more connected to the body I was in. The transformation that was happening through the evolution of my yoga practice, day by day, year by year. If only everyone could develop this self awareness, this connection with their body. You would be able to hear what the body really craves, rest, sleep, water, movement, a deep breath, nature, a good cry, a hug, some love, nourishment, passion, a purpose. Make self care and self love a priority. You are worth it!
