Is Your Issue Willpower Or Is It Lack Of Awareness?

When we have a bad habit or something we would like to change, we sometimes think that if we had more willpower the problem would be solved.  Just a little more strength would solve it, and the lack of strength means failure.  It starts a cycle of self blame and reproach that we should have done better. Or it may have you blaming someone else for causing the problem. 

For example, when someone wants to lose weight, they think the lack of willpower may cause them to eat the wrong foods or eat too much food.  The body, according to Ayurveda, has the ability to know when it is full and how much is enough.  We have the ability in other things too, because our internal guidance system is that good.  The root of illness in Ayurveda is pragya aparad (mistake of intellect) which is really a disconnection from our inner knowing.  When we are balanced in health and mind, we are able to make better choices.  Choices that are made impulsively or against our good judgment are not true choices.  Back to our example, when you must have that second piece of cake or that double scoop of ice cream, you are not really hungry.  Rather you are filling some need or trying to avoid feeling something.  In the moment, ask whether you are hungry and why you want the food if you aren't. Take a few deep breaths and try to figure out what you are really feeling.  Physically, it is not hunger and you have to dig a little deeper.  There is no such thing as lack of willpower, but there is a lack of presence.  At first it is a little uncomfortable to do this, but working through the awareness to the real issue will bring growth.  It will also give you the power to make the better choice.  Mistakes are okay.  Practice is courageous and will help you get where you want to go.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa