Balancing Act!

Where is time going? It's May already, I've nearly finished my final year of university!
I've been so busy drowning in essays (and maybe the occasional vodka to ease the pain) that I have neglected my personal writing!
So today's post is going to focus on BALANCE.

We all need balance in our lives. Starting from the very basics, we need balance to walk, cycle and even sit. We know that we're supposed to lead a 'balanced lifestyle'. But what about when it comes to life?

Sometimes, it feels as if we are unable to attain peace. We rush constantly and forget to take time to stop and appreciate little things. I thought about this the other day whilst power walking through the crowds at Stratford station; I was late for work, it was rush hour, and I was getting angry at the people walking slowly in my way. Then I realised: I was getting angry because I was jealous. I couldn't walk at that slow pace any more, because then I'd be even later for work. My life isn't slow paced. Is that such a bad thing?

Yes and no. I rush and don't LET myself have time off, so when I eventually crash, it feels like I'm being lazy and I punish myself for it. The key is to recognise that I am allowed downtime. It's ok to lay on my bed and flick through everyone's snapchat stories, as long as I balance that downtime with my work time.

When was the last time you stopped? Just stopped, admired a tree, or the river, or anything. Do it. Take a deep breath and stop. Allow yourself the balance of calm, away from the usual stress that life draws us into. We are taught that stopping is failing. But there's a difference between stopping and pausing.

Balance is key.

Even in veganism, you must eat a balanced diet, otherwise it's boring and unhealthy. You can't just eat salad, or you'll get malnourished and probably unhappy. Make vegan brownies and take the time to sit down, put Friends on, and eat.

Same for exercise. Don't punish yourself by running every day (unless that's your jam, then keep it up, strong legged friend!). Allow yourself a realistic workout schedule that you can stick to. You can't exercise your weight off, then stop working out. You gotta do it because you like it. It feels so good to move. It gets your blood pumping! But make sure you let yourself chill out too. Try yoga :)

So I ask you to do this: try and allow yourself to stop. Don't feel guilty. You can figure it out, I believe in you.

Balance, friends!

Peace and love. xoxoxo