Monday Thoughts 9.2.24

“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”  –Mary Oliver

“When you feel awe, the default mode network in your brain is deactivated…It’s the opposite of ‘fight or flight’ physiology.”  –Dacher Keltner

““Without awe life becomes routine…try to be surprised by something every day. Try to surprise at least one person every day.” –Mihalyi Csikszentmihalyi

#11 Enthusiasm is my daily exercise.

I treasure the moments of my New Life.

Karen’s Thoughts

Enthusiasm didn’t feel lacking before sobriety and recovery. From outside appearances, I was moving through life with excitement and even some feelings of thrill.  Inside however, I felt strangely disconnected, empty and lonely.  What I had labeled as feelings of enthusiasm were merely behaviors that made my brain release dopamine, also known as the “feel good hormone.”  Alcohol had removed the ability to feel good, so I sought out increasingly adventurous and dangerous behaviors.  Sobriety and Statement #11 in action changes this.

Authentic enthusiasm and awe foster connection while cementing joyous moments to our being. This feeling becomes intertwined into our makeup; livening up our senses, and others take notice, much like our WFS Program booklet asserts “Enthusiasm gives life a special meaning.  To be enthusiastic is to live each day to the fullest.  It makes us feel alive and vibrant.  It lights up the inner part of our being – we glow, and others respond to this.”
 

Recently, I traveled with our two youngest grands as they took their first flight.  While both were a bit nervous taking off, their eyes widened as they looked out the window.  Fascination took over; then enthusiasm and awe lit up their faces.  Relishing this moment, I smiled inside and out. It was a wonderful example of Statement #11.  Then loud enough for the entire plane to hear, the nine year old excitedly exclaimed “There’s a WHOLE BIG WORLD out there!!!  The rest of the plane smiled alongside us.

• When was the last time you felt enthusiasm?   Describe the moment and how you felt.
• Can you add enthusiastic words to your vocabulary?: spectacular, interested, joyful, passionate.  What other words can you add?  Use in conversations, journal, mantras etc
• What can you do today that requires nothing extra to create enthusiasm?

Hugzzz 

Karen

Warmest wishes to our Monday Thoughts co-author Dee W as she continues to heal and recover from her orthopedic surgery!  

Wellness and recovery from substance use disorder are multifaceted processes that require a holistic approach, especially for women who often face unique challenges during their journey. Women may grapple with societal pressures, trauma, and stigma, which can complicate their recovery experience. Prioritizing self-care is essential for women as it empowers them to reclaim their lives, foster resilience, and build a supportive environment. Engaging in wellness activities—such as mindfulness practices, physical exercise, and building strong social connections—can enhance emotional well-being and promote a healthier lifestyle. These practices not only facilitate recovery but also help women cultivate a sense of identity outside of their substance use, allowing them to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Moreover, self-care is critical for maintaining the gains achieved during recovery. Women often juggle multiple roles as caregivers, professionals, and community members, which can lead to feelings of overwhelm and burnout. By prioritizing their own health and well-being, women can establish boundaries that protect their recovery journey. This can include seeking therapy or simply taking time for personal reflection and relaxation. In doing so, women not only foster their own wellness but also serve as powerful role models for others in their communities. Emphasizing self-care is not a selfish act; rather, it is a foundational aspect of sustained recovery that enables women to contribute positively to their families and society at large.

-Dr. Michelle Shaivitz, Executive Director