A Balance of Heart and Mind


" Mastering yourself is true power." Lao Tzu

" Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is Enlightenment." Lao Tzu

" Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is out power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." Rollo May


Balance in life is an important part in recovery from addictions and mental health signs and symptoms. Considering some of the problems associated with addictions and mental health, I find some of the taoist beliefs to be helpful along with cognitive behavioral therapy. Thoughts effect behaviors and feelings while feelings can effect behaviors and thoughts. All three are interdependent upon each other however if we focus on thought changing to more rational thinking with a balance between the heart and mind we can effectively make decisions and help influence our lives for the better. This also can help rewire the brain to make better, less impulsive decisions though out our lives. Some people have more serious mental health and addiction problems where there is a need for medications. Medications coupled with CBT and a sense of spirituality can shed light on fighting the signs and symptoms of mental health and addiction. In the past, I have experienced psychosis and I know what its like to become psychotic, and I can tell you that this is a chemical imbalance. I believe this was passed down from my father's side of the family and was also a side effect of an imbalanced lifestyle filled with excessive exercise and horrible eating habits. Thinking about having a balance of heart and mind helps me to change behaviors and think about the future this in turn creates and environment that is supportive for my recovery. This enhances growth in self and freedom to choose my destination in life. It also gives my a sense of power to help others through hardships and suffering, to be brave. 

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