“Is this nourishing?”
This question weaves itself into my days. Overwhelmingly, it nags at me when I know I am not honoring my needs.
It comes up when I reach for my phone just to scroll: “Is this nourishing?” When I go for another cup of coffee knowing it'll disrupt my sleep: “Is this nourishing?” When I choose to work when I really need to rest: “Is this nourishing?” And in so many other contexts. Sometimes I proceed with the very act that I know isn't nourishing and sometimes I pause and choose not to. Either way, there is something to be learned of our values and ourselves by engaging with curiosity.
Go about your day and ask yourself this same question.
When you restrict food or skip meals: “Is this nourishing?” When you force yourself to eat all the food on your plate even when you're full: “Is this nourishing?” When you self isolate instead of engage: “Is this nourishing?” When you overwork yourself: “Is this nourishing?” When you skip training or a walk you planned: “Is this nourishing?” When you self criticize: “Is this nourishing? When you say choose to work more over rest: “Is this nourishing?
Don’t attack yourself when the answer is “no.” Instead, just notice and get curious.
Sometimes the answer is “this is not nourishing, but it is necessary.” Necessity doesn't have to result in self neglect. Tune in to other ways that you can honor your body and your needs. Maybe you have to stay up late because you work with someone in a different time zone (necessity), but you also choose to be more intentional with a bedtime routine to make the best of the sleep you do have (nourishing).
Nourishment is so much more than the type of food you consume.
What does nourishment mean to you? How can you cultivate more of it in your day to day? What does it reveal when you choose to participate in actions you know are not nourishing?
Give yourself permission to slow down, instead of rushing. Practice mindfulness and presence. Engage in creativity and passions. Rest, even when a voice tells you to be more productive. Choose nourishment.
