“The real truth, that dare not speak itself, is that no one is in control. Absolutely no one.”
Terence McKenna, Ethnobotanist (1946-2000)
A person close to me has been deploying the refreshingly simple technique of taking his “problem” on a walk. When he is having a conflict or something is not sitting right with him, he literally takes a walk with the express purpose of talking to it, an interior monologue with the problem. The goal is not to solve it, rather to understand what the real issue is. To see it from the other person’s perspective. He says what he wants to say via a “silent conversation”.
His concerns are his only companions.
By naming and saying what is bothering him in his mind, he notices his view softens, forgiveness comes more easily. He has actually resolved conflicts by changing his perspective and seeing others more clearly. As Wallace Stevens said, “Perhaps the truth depends on a walk around the lake.”
Of course, it is almost always helpful to talk to a good listener.
Using our interior selves in this way allows us to understand ourselves better—the key to a good life—and it can bring you closer to those you care about or work with. Also, there is no problem that’s going to be made worse by going for a walk (unless there is Black Ice).
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Wellbeing Ideas
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The Tarzan Method
While Tarzan is a fictional character and we are pretty sure people did not swing from vines, ever. The metaphor is useful nonetheless. Stay agile, stay open, there are no straight lines in living a good life.
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Family Life and Aging are Changing
Our understanding of lifespan is changing dramatically, leaving many of us feeling unmoored. This Emerging Elderhood: Transitions from Midlife White Paper is worth a read, offering some specific ideas. We can expand our capacity to tolerate uncertainty, which can go a long way in promoting our wellbeing.
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Norwegian 4×4 Protocol
I’ve been doing this protocol on a stationary bike and noticing my endurance is building. The 4×4 evidence-based protocol consists of four 4-minute intervals of intense exercise (I mean all out, HARD) followed by three 3-minute rest periods. It takes 32 minutes and I only do it 1-2 times a week. Its a sweaty and tough workout and you may need to work up to it. I find I don’t get my heart rate up high enough in the shorter Tabata intervals. To learn more see Jan Hoff’s Ted Talk or listen to or read my favorite biochemist and science communicator, Rhonda Patrick.
PS: Don’t count your heartrate using the carotid artery! Use a wearable for max effectiveness.
Stay Well, Eileen
