Prioritizing Whole Health over Hustle

In today’s fast-paced world, there's a lot of pressure to always be on the go. Achieving more, and pushing ourselves to the limit. Being super busy has become something many people aim for. As if being constantly active is a trophy to show off. But this non-stop hustle can take a toll on us, leaving us feeling drained, stressed, and far from our best selves. It's becoming clearer that taking a step back to focus on our overall wellbeing is not just important. It's necessary.

The truth is, constantly striving without pausing to rest or reflect can lead to burnout. It's like running a car engine on high all the time without ever giving it a break or a tune-up. Eventually, things start to break down. This relentless pursuit can affect our health, making us feel tired all the time, anxious, or even depressed. It can strain our relationships and make us lose sight of what truly makes us happy. Recognizing the signs that we're pushing too hard and understanding the value of slowing down are the first steps toward a healthier, more balanced life.

So, why not choose a different path? One that values self-care, rest, and real connections with others. Prioritizing our health and happiness over perpetual busyness not only leads to a more fulfilling life but also makes us more resilient and effective in achieving our goals. It's about finding a balance that allows us to enjoy life's journey, not just rush through it. This shift in perspective can help us lead richer, more satisfying lives, where we take care of ourselves and, as a result, are better equipped to take on the world.

Kristen Owens, a Toronto-based mom of three, has made her mark as a Nutrition and Mindset Leader with over thirty years in the wellness industry. Her unique approach empowers busy women and entrepreneurs to replace the hustle with restful strategies in business and life. Kristen's "undiet" method, rooted in faith, promises lasting results by focusing on personal growth and deepening faith as key to achieving health goals.

Through her Whole Health Trinity Foundations, Kristen teaches the importance of understanding oneself and solidifying faith for sustainable health transformations. She’s also the engaging host of the Health, Healing & Holiness Podcast and TV shows on Rogers TV, dedicated to promoting a simple yet profound whole health lifestyle. Kristen’s work is a testament to living a balanced life, guided by spirituality and practical wellness strategies.

The constant push to stay busy and always be accomplishing something has its downsides. When we're caught up in the hustle, we often end up feeling exhausted, stressed, and even unwell. Our bodies and minds aren't designed to be in constant motion without rest. Ignoring the need for downtime can lead to serious health issues, both physically and mentally. It's like ignoring the warning lights on your car's dashboard; eventually, something's going to break down.

Moreover, this relentless pursuit of productivity can have a negative impact on our emotional wellbeing and our relationships. The pressure to keep pushing can make us feel anxious, depressed, or irritable, affecting how we interact with those closest to us. Our friends and family might start to feel like we're always too busy for them, creating distance in our relationships. In the chase for success, we risk missing out on the moments that truly matter- time spent with loved ones, enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

It's important to recognize that constantly striving for more can detract from our happiness and satisfaction with what we already have. There's value in pausing to appreciate our achievements and the beauty of the present moment. Learning to be content doesn't mean giving up on our goals; rather, it's about finding a healthier balance. By acknowledging the downside of the hustle and giving ourselves permission to slow down, we open the door to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Nurturing Our Whole Self

Imagine a day where, instead of rushing through your to-do list, you take time to do things that truly make you happy. This could mean setting aside work to spend a few hours with friends, enjoying the outdoors, or simply relaxing at home. It’s about giving our bodies and minds a break from the constant pressure to perform. Taking care of our whole selves isn't just about physical health; it's about feeling good on the inside too. By incorporating activities that bring us joy and relaxation into our daily routine, we support our overall wellbeing.

Mindful Living

Part of taking better care of ourselves involves being kind to our minds. This can be as simple as practicing mindfulness for a few minutes each day, allowing ourselves to fully experience the present moment without judgment. It’s about being aware of our thoughts and feelings without getting swept away by them. Mindful eating also plays a role, choosing foods that nourish our bodies and enhance our energy levels, rather than opting for quick fixes that leave us feeling sluggish. When we treat our minds with care, we’re better equipped to handle stress and navigate life’s challenges with grace.

Strengthening Connections

But self-care and mindfulness don’t exist in a vacuum; they’re also about our connection to others and the world around us. Engaging in community activities, lending a helping hand, or simply spending quality time with loved ones can deepen our sense of belonging and purpose. These connections remind us that we’re part of a larger tapestry of life, contributing to our sense of fulfillment and happiness. By focusing on building and maintaining these relationships, we not only enhance our own lives but also bring joy and support to those around us.

Adopting this more balanced approach to living encourages us to prioritize our health, happiness, and connections over the constant push to achieve. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best thing we can do for ourselves - and for those we care about - is to slow down, be present, and appreciate the richness of life’s experiences.

Redefining success means looking beyond the traditional markers like grades, income, or how packed our schedules are. True success encompasses our wellbeing, the quality of our relationships, and our ability to enjoy life's moments. It's about finding a balance between pursuing our ambitions and taking care of our health and happiness. Having goals is important, but the journey towards achieving them shouldn't leave us feeling exhausted or burnt out. It's about striving for our dreams while also making space for joy and relaxation in our daily lives.

The idea that we can only be successful by constantly pushing ourselves is outdated. Success also lies in the moments of quiet, in laughter shared with friends, and in the peace of a well-rested mind and body. It's in the small, everyday experiences as much as in the big achievements. Allowing ourselves to take breaks, to step back and appreciate what we have, and to enjoy the simple pleasures of life is not only okay; it's essential. These moments of pause are not a sign of laziness or lack of ambition but a necessary part of a fulfilling and successful life.

So, let's shift our perspective on what it means to be successful. Let's value our mental and physical wellbeing, cherish our connections with others, and find contentment in the present. By doing so, we embrace a more holistic view of success - one that nurtures our souls and brings genuine happiness. Remember, success is not just about reaching a destination but also about enjoying the journey, with all its twists and turns, without losing sight of what truly matters.

Achieving a balanced life is about creating harmony between our ambitions, personal wellbeing, and relationships. Here are key steps to guide us on this journey:

Set Goals That Make You Happy

The foundation of a balanced life is setting goals that genuinely resonate with our values and desires. It’s crucial to pursue objectives that not only challenge us but also bring joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s a career aspiration, a personal project, or a hobby, ensure your goals align with what truly matters to you. This alignment keeps motivation high and makes the journey towards achieving these goals as rewarding as the destination itself.

Rest is Important

In our busy lives, rest can sometimes feel like a luxury we can't afford. However, just as we schedule time for work and responsibilities, it's essential to prioritize relaxation. Rest is not a reward for hard work; it's a fundamental need for our bodies and minds to recharge and function optimally. Regularly incorporating periods of rest into our routine can improve our productivity, enhance our creativity, and maintain our physical and mental health.

Stay Connected

Human beings are social creatures. And our relationships play a significant role in our overall happiness and sense of belonging. Making time to connect with friends and family not only strengthens our bonds with them but also provides emotional support and joy. These connections remind us that we're not alone in our journey. And that sharing our experiences, both the highs and lows, can make life richer and more meaningful.

Keep Learning and Growing

Continual personal growth and learning new things keep our minds active and our lives interesting. The pursuit of knowledge and skills shouldn't end with formal education. Whether it's picking up a new hobby, learning a language, or exploring new places. These experiences contribute to our personal development and enhance our understanding of the world. Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning encourages us to remain curious and open to new possibilities, adding depth and excitement to our lives.

By following these steps, we can cultivate a more balanced approach to life. One that honors our work, our need for rest, our relationships, and our personal growth. This holistic approach ensures that we're not just surviving day to day. But truly thriving and enjoying the richness of our experiences.

Embracing a balanced life is more than just a trendy concept. It's a transformative approach that promises a richer, more fulfilling existence. This shift towards balance is not just about enhancing personal wellbeing. It's about redefining what it means to live well in today's fast-paced world. By setting goals that resonate with our deepest desires, prioritizing rest as a fundamental aspect of our routine, nurturing our relationships, and committing to lifelong learning, we open the door to a life that's not only successful by conventional standards but also deeply satisfying and joyful.

This balanced approach matters because it acknowledges the complexity of human needs and aspirations. It offers a path that honors our hard work and ambition while also recognizing the importance of relaxation, connection, and personal growth. Adopting this approach means embarking on a journey that is as much about achieving external goals as it is about cultivating inner peace, resilience, and happiness. It's a reminder that in the hustle and bustle of daily life, taking the time to care for ourselves and our relationships is not a luxury but a necessity.

Ultimately, prioritizing a balanced life is a profound act of self-care and wisdom. It invites us to slow down, reflect on what truly matters. And make intentional choices that align with our wellbeing and values. This message is an invitation to embrace a more holistic view of success. One that integrates the professional, personal, and spiritual aspects of life into a harmonious whole. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also inspire those around us to consider what it means to live fully and authentically.

It's a journey worth taking, promising a destination filled with greater contentment, connection, and joy.

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