Peaceful Warrior is a movie that came out in 2006 that focuses on “a chance encounter with a stranger which changes the life of a college gymnast.”
I do not know where I was in 2006, but I just watched it. I thought it was a great movie that had a lot of real-life application. After I thought about it more in-depth I came up with 10 lessons that this movie can teach each of us.
1. No matter what you eat the key is to be mindful and present while you are eating.
The movie promoted more of a vegetarian and vegan lifestyle, which for those of us trying to get rid of pain has many positive benefits such as keeping inflammation in our bodies down, our hormones more in balance plus so much more.
(More on this topic in future blog posts – like how I teased you there?)
2. Be of service to others which is why we are ultimately here on this planet.
I am starting to ask myself two questions at the start of each day. What blessings or gifts will await me today? This helps promote a watchful eye on your day and being grateful for the small and big things in life. The second question I ask myself is how I can serve others today? My goal for the year is to walk in love every day because love never fails so keep an eye out and listen to those around you. Maybe you can be a blessing to someone in need.
3. Take out the trash when it comes to our thoughts.
Eek! I am guilty of the constant chatter and negative talk that our minds throw up at us each second of every day. How about you? The goal is to keep your mind focused on what’s here and now instead of worrying about the past and future. Easier said than done, but it can help us remain in a flow of productivity in all areas of our lives. Practice. Practice. Practice.
4. Apply meditation in every action even while cleaning the toilets.
What?! You want me to meditate while I have my (gloved) hand in a toilet? I know you think I am crazy and I thought this was a little much when I watched the movie, but what if we stopped to think about it some more. We may not be reciting a mantra or doing our deep breathing, but maybe we can be present, breathe and focus on the task at hand. That alone is a type of meditation.
5. There is never nothing going on. There are no ordinary moments.
There is always something happening in our lives and in the lives of those around us. We just need to heighten our senses and pay attention.
6. Courage to be vulnerable.
Yikes! If you want to stop reading right now I do not blame you. This one is really hard for me too. Being vulnerable does not mean showing weakness and it doesn’t mean you are necessarily a teary-eyed hot mess either. What this comes down to for me is relating to others based on the experiences I have had in my life and having the courage to share with others so maybe they can feel like they are not alone in their journey.
7. Surrender control and know no matter what happens you are exceptional either way.
Control is an illusion. As we all know things in life do not always go accordingly to plan, but no matter how the process unfolds we are still unique individuals who are here for a purpose and we are exceptional. Why? Well, there is no one else like you on this planet. You are unique. You are one-of-a-kind so let the pieces of the puzzle fall where they may!
8. Journey brings is happiness not the destination.
To often we do not enjoy the road we are on because we are always looking to the future or the final destination. When we do this we miss the gifts and blessings along the way. Keep a gratitude journal so you always remember the journey.
9. Find humor in our lives and most importantly be able to laugh at yourself.
This is a must! I am goofy, silly and a complete klutz. I always have bruises all over my from running into things. Just call me Grace! No matter what try to find the humor in life and in your situation. It helps to ease the tension.
10. Understand that nothing stays the same and change is a part of life.
I know you know this, but it is a good reminder. Nothing in life stays the same so cherish every moment with those around you. Try not to take the people in your life for granted. So stop reading this blog post and go hug someone you care about!
In all things: Be Here. Be Now. Be in This Moment.
Did you see this movie? If so, what did you learn from it? I want to hear your thoughts below.