The Practice of Noticing What Has Changed

When we want to change something in our lives, it is easy to focus on the big change we want and to notice what’s not working. But change doesn’t usually happen in huge leaps and bounds (or if it does, it usually doesn't last). Change happens slowly, sometimes two steps forward and one step back and sometimes so slowly that it seems hardly noticeable. What I want to encourage you to do is to take the time to notice the small changes along the way. This makes a huge difference in enjoying the process and becoming more aware of yourself.

We miss a huge piece of being present and actually changing if we don’t pause to notice how the things we do affect us. What feels different? Is it better, the same or worse? What does our body feel like? Do we like doing this thing or are we just going through the steps because we heard on a podcast that we should do this thing? 

Something happens when we pause to notice change, to notice a difference in ourselves, that allows our brains and nervous systems to really absorb and integrate what is different. Focus on what is working, what does feel good or easier. That practice can be beneficial to show your nervous system what is working and that change is possible.

When you are doing all the wonderful things that support your health, make sure to pause and notice how these things are feeling in your body and how they are impacting you in a positive way. The practice of noticing change can take some time. Since we tend to notice what’s not working (pain, anxiety, overwhelm, etc.), it can be different to cultivate this awareness of positive change. I encourage you to spend some time with this, especially after you actively do things to better yourself (eating well, doing Pilates, etc) and really notice how you feel in your body.