4 minute read
Spring reminds us that to renew is to restore
ature boasts beauty in spring, highlighting for us the possibilities of new beginnings. As the landscape is reshaped and revitalised, demonstrating the power of renewal, we are afforded the inspiration to renew our minds. Springtime reveals itself in its outward growth. We see new buds poking out of dry branches, reaching outwards towards the sun and the promise of warmer season rains while awaiting their turn to blossom.
Nature organically responds to this new season of spring, and while the land reinvigorates, this can create a subconscious inspiration to re-energise ourselves. We feel inspired and filled with optimism for new beginnings. This can give strength to our own fresh starts.
Our environment comes to life as nature awakens from its winter hibernation, and so too can we harness the power of this season and rejuvenate. To renew is simply to restore what once was; to restore the existence and refill the space.
The beauty of renewal is that it brings us in line with our life’s purpose and values, which lead us to progress in our lives. Our capacity for self-renewal (like we see in nature) hinges on our capacity for personal growth. When we overlook our own need for self-renewal, we can miss opportunities and stagnate.
For a start, we simply need to be aware of ourselves, as with awareness we are able to develop a refreshed version of ourselves. Knowing yourself is the beginning of all great personal achievements. As the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu wrote, “He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened.” Why this matters when talking about renewal is because everyone has a preferred way of renewal. A way that works for them to feel refreshed. Knowing ourselves helps us to identify our own sources of intrinsic motivation.
For example, are you tactile, kinaesthetic, visual or auditory? Here is how it applies to renewal:
Tactile: You need things like hugs or massages. Physical touch and lovely feeling fabric. These things help you feel renewed and refreshed.
Kinaesthetic: You need to dance or run or express your feelings with your hands. These things help you feel renewed and refreshed.
Visual: You need to look at art, spend time in nature or read a book. These things help you feel renewed and refreshed.
Auditory: You need to listen to music or attend a sound healing class. Or perhaps you need to have a good
conversation with a trusted and respected source. These things help you feel renewed and refreshed.
Sometimes we are not only one of these types but a combination of them. Knowing what feeds your soul helps you to create moments when you give yourself that which you need. This helps you feel revitalised. With this knowledge you can nurture yourself based on your type and drivers. This is using mindfulness to drive motivation and personal growth. There is a strong connection between motivation and self-renewal. This means that when we are looking after ourselves, we increase our self-esteem, which in turn makes us feel more self-efficient and this increases our motivation and ability to perform our tasks.
Here follow some of the ways in which you can renew yourself this spring to increase your self-esteem:
TAKE A PERSONAL INVENTORY
Understand your deepest negative thoughts by asking yourself: “How many of my days are spent harbouring negative thoughts?”
Continue by asking yourself:
“What is working in my life and what is not?”
“What can be improved?”
“What do I really want?”
The answer to these questions helps us to understand where the roadblocks are that keep us from being where we want to be. It is also important to remember that some roadblocks are external and others are internal. Often the things that hold us back are our own fears or doubts.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY
To renew our minds, we should not focus solely on the mind. To nurture our minds, we need to engage the body. Make time to move your physical body, as it is the small step you take today that will set you on the path to refresh your mindset.
KEEP UP THE HOPE AND MOTIVATION
Optimism is essential for self-renewal. We need to stand in the face of obstacles and realise that we can be more tomorrow than we were yesterday.
As we enter this new season, I invite you to remember that nature shows us that spring will always follow winter. You always have the opportunity to refresh and renew those things that are not working in your life.
