You might think the best place to do some soul searching would be high on a mountain top doing some deep meditation. Maybe even a secluded cabin in the woods far from any interruptions while getting in touch with nature. Or possibly a private oceanfront beach house to sit lazily listening to the ocean waves and becoming more in tuned to one’s thoughts.
In my case, I didn’t have the luxury of doing any of those things. My soul searching was simply just taking some time off from writing my blog, minimizing time spent on social media and unplugging from electronic devices.
I was finding that there was too much noise going on around me and, most certainly, too much noise and conflict in my head. Not hearing voices kind of noise, but having too many unfocused thoughts. It was getting too busy in there. It was time to regroup and refocus.
So, I took more time to read, take bike rides and exercise. I sat down by the lake, breathed deeper and observed its beauty. Also, I napped more and decided to enjoy some alone time to unwind and not feel guilty about it. Physically I didn’t need it, but my mind did.
Then oddly enough, without completely unplugging from modern conveniences, I managed to inject some humor in my spare time to watch a series on Netflix called Grace and Frankie.
If you have the option to watch this show it’s a must! Grace and Frankie stars Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston.
“Grace and Frankie: Finding out that their husbands are not just work partners, but have also been romantically involved for the last 20 years, two women with an already strained relationship try to cope with the circumstances together.” imdb.com
Watching this show came at such a good time, because it helped me to disengage from some of the noise and remember how laughter is a very essential part of soul searching.
SOUL SEARCHING:
• Self-analysis of our own motive or attitude toward something. Looking deep within ourselves to find why we think or act the way we do, regarding a particular situation.
• Examination of one’s conscience especially with regard to motives and values.
• A close and penetrating analysis of oneself, esp. in an effort to determine one’s true feelings and desires.
Just like Grace and Frankie, who are in need of doing soul searching after 40-50 years of marriage through some unbelievable changes; I, too, had to do some soul searching. I wanted to figure out my direction and what the next move or goal should be.
So, after the reading, biking, lake gazing, napping and watching Netflix – you may be asking, what did I get out of all this soul searching?
I got that you can make vagina lubricant from yams! And, besides it being a lubricant, you can also put it on toast.
Like Frankie (Lily Tomlin) said “You shouldn’t put anything in your vagina that you would not put in your mouth.”
I know! Mind. BLOWN.
Don’t ever underestimate the power of soul searching. You may get answers to things before even knowing the questions.
Seriously, it’s a good show. Love it! I realized it all comes back to humor and expressing it in writing is what serves me.
It shouldn’t matter if no else gets or understands what you’re doing or not doing, it just matters that it means something to YOU and makes YOU happy!
Once you find out what THAT is and what you’re about – only then will it bring happiness, satisfaction and confidence.
Everyone should do some soul searching at some point. Whatever works for you – is it a mountain top, cabin in the woods or sitting on the beach? It could be as close as your couch enjoying some alone time with Netflix.
Frankie summed it up by expressing “I know not where this road leads, but I know that I will return changed.”
Suzi
Tuesday 8th of December 2015
Soul searching is so important! I saw your post on the WOM Facebook post, and clicked on it right away. I was intrigued, as, just this morning I'd also published a post on self care. Kindred spirits! And I ADORE Grace & Frankie. I went into mourning a bit when I finished the season. I hope it keeps going.
Laurie Oien
Tuesday 8th of December 2015
Suzi, I've noticed the older I get the more self care and soul searching is at the top of mind. I'll be sure to read your post, as well. Not sure when Grace & Frankie starts again, but I can't wait. Thank you for taking the time to stop by and visit.
Laurie Oien
Monday 7th of December 2015
Oh my goodness Beth, I love Chicago Fire and was reluctant to start watching Chicago Med. Don't want to get wrapped up in too much TV drama. I used to watch ER back in the day, so I think I'd get hooked on this one, as well. So glad you stopped by to comment. Thank you.
Beth Havey
Monday 7th of December 2015
I love to unplug at the end of the day, to let my mind fill up with something OTHER than the things I am doing. My husband and I watched Grace and Frankie, eating up each episode like some wonderful chocolate. I love to laugh. But I also enjoy feeling emotions down in my heart, shaking my soul--I just watched an episode of Chicago Med and that did it for me.
Julie Jo Severson
Monday 7th of December 2015
I always love a good mix of humor and reflection, and you didn't disappoint! I really need to unplug as you did, and I think I will do just that for a few keeps. I really enjoyed reading this. Thank you!.
Laurie Oien
Monday 7th of December 2015
Julie, so thrilled it could bring a smile. It really is important to unplug from life's distractions, but also to find humor in it. Laughter truly is the best medicine! Best of days and thank you for taking the time to read.
Roxanne
Monday 7th of December 2015
What a wonderful reminder that self-reflection doesn't have to involve navel-gazing; that simply unplugging from the daily grind and letting our minds wander (or taking in a funny TV series) can often help us reset our mindset. Great post!
Laurie Oien
Monday 7th of December 2015
Thank you for your comments Roxanne. It's true, unplugging from the daily grind has become a necessity with everything we're faced with this day and age. Glad it could serve as a reminder.