Life today isn’t as simple as it use to be.

Our lives are filled with conveniences and most people are fortunate enough to have the basics they need to survive.

Years ago, people felt they were lacking if they didn’t have shoes to wear. Today, if a person doesn’t have a smart phone they feel like they are behind the times. But the truth is, most of us could live without all the high tech gadgets and extra comforts we accept as part of the norm.

This is the type of thing that was running through my mind as I was taking my nature walk today. Which led me to ask myself, “What are five things I can’t live without?”

Here’s what I came up with:

1. My dogs. They put a smile on my face and offer unconditional love.

2. My yoga and qigong practice. It keeps me sane and grounded.

3. My work. It gives me a purpose.

4. A good book. Offers me escape time.

5. Me time. Recharges my batteries.

I didn’t include family and friends because they are a given. We all need the support and encouragement that family and friends offer us and there is no  doubt that we need them as part of our primary support system. But when we look beyond the obvious, each person is different. One person may need more quiet time while others enjoy more of a social life. Some people are athletes at heart and others could care less if they ever work out again.

However, it’s unfortunate that so many of us run on auto pilot these days that we lose sight of what it really is that makes us tick or keeps us going.

So here is my challenge to you. I want you to take a moment. Right now. And think about what it is that makes you tick. What drives you? What gives you nourishment? What are five things you can’t live without?

Now, don’t just think about them. Write them down. Because if you aren’t incorporating these things into your routine on a regular basis, you need to take a step back and figure out how you can.

Its time to stop putting ourselves on the back burner and enjoy the life that we have been given. The only way to do that is to nourish ourselves. And in order to truly nourish ourselves, we have to have a focal point and a  clear plan of action.

So, take the time to put into words those things that you can’t live without and make a conscious effort to incorporate what ever it is into your daily routine. Believe me, you’re worth it!

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Editor: Catherine Monkman

Photo: elephant archives