Summit the Soul
If I were to ask you if you fearful or doubtful, chances are that you would say sometimes or not really. But how would you really know if you are indeed fearful or doubtful? One of the fastest ways to recognize if you have fear or self-doubt is either to step out of your comfort zone or have some external influence push you out. The comfort zone is your usual routine that does not serve your best interest anymore. Therefore, I have found that it is best to step out and not wait for someone or something to do it for me. Doing it yourself is beneficial for your confidence level and resilience, as well as what may keep you glued together during stressful times. Getting out of the “comfort zone” is what I prescribe for living healthy and vital despite what is going on around you.
So, what can we do to challenge ourselves to face our uncertainties and fears?
Mountaineering is a time I use to get out of my comfort zone. It isn’t so much the physical climb itself, but the training that is required to endure the forces of nature as well as the challenges put forward by my mind. One of the benefits that I get from putting myself through various expeditions is that I develop confidence and trust in myself that I am able to bring home with me.
One incidence comes to mind several years ago when in Tibet. One day after a long jeep ride across the plains, I ventured off the beaten trail and climbed to the top of a sixteen thousand foot ridge. The altitude alone was enough to push my mind as well as my body to the limit. As I ascended, the winds were pushing 50 miles per hour, which in and of itself can make someone feel a bit shaky. Then I looked up and a huge bird was circling and starring down at me. I was completely alone. Surrounded by the sound of the incredibly loud wind and the circling bird starring down upon my body as if I were a large field mouse, my mind began to entertain fear and doubt. I remember thinking that I would not make it back to camp if the bird decided to swoop down on me. I was sick with waves of fear. Looking down over the plains, I saw the campsite; so far away and too high for anyone to see me. I realized that I could not let my mind wander. I had to focus and not panic. I still needed to have a clear mind and enough physical strength to stay on my feet and get off this mountain. Panic was not an option. In short, I had to keep it together. Relying on my past physical experiences, and my core habit of meditation; my breath became an anchor for my mind. I was able to descend to safety. When I did return to base camp, I was relieved and elated. In spite of all that could have happened, I used what I knew and was able to complete my journey. The experience gave me more confidence and strength that I brought home with me.
The routines that I have set for myself in my daily life - meditation, good food, exercise and relaxation is how my journey continues. These practices allow me to live in the world; but not be affected by the currents of change. We are privileged to have the freedom of how we choose to live our life. Once we recognize this, we can live more joyfully.
Join me March 25 – 27 2011 at the Himalayan Institute to learn practical tools to cope with stress and chart your inner journey to the summit of your own soul. For details on the program visit: http://www.drsusantaylor.com/program/summit-soul
