Are You Happy?

Are you happy?

Are you where you want to be in your life?

When you wake up every day, do you look forward to the day or feel a sense of dread?

Do you wish things were different?

I remember a time, just a few years ago, when I was really unhappy. I had a life that I had always wanted—an awesome husband who loved and supported me, two healthy, beautiful kids, a dog, a safe place to live, and a job that I really enjoyed—yet I wasn’t happy. In fact, I didn’t feel anything. I felt totally numb.

I had no motivation. I was tired all the time. I didn’t recognize myself and had no clue what I wanted from my life. I felt like I “should” be happy with everything I had and that it “should” be enough. I continued to move through every day thinking that things were going to change.

I thought if I worked out harder, ate better, took supplements to sort out my hormones, or went to bed earlier, things would improve. I did all the things you are “supposed” to do, but nothing changed.

It wasn’t until I fell apart that things began to change. I started experiencing panic attacks that stopped me from working. My body literally forced me to stop. I was diagnosed with depression and began taking antidepressants. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, an autoimmune thyroid condition—my body had literally started attacking itself. I was also diagnosed with osteoarthritis because my body was on fire!

Then things changed. I asked for help. I began therapy and started to unpack everything I was holding onto. I went to my first restorative yoga class and got my first spiritual coach. I slowed down and started to listen to myself and my needs. This was when things started to change.

I got to know myself again. I learned who I am, what I want, and what my dreams are. I got rid of old habits that were no longer serving me and brought in new ones. I stopped controlling everything in my life. I removed my mask and began opening up to family and friends about how I really felt.

For the past ten years, I have been on a journey of self-exploration, and I can tell you truthfully that I am now so happy in my life. Do I have a new family? No! Have I moved homes? No! Have I lost 20 lbs? No! The only thing I have changed is that I now put myself at the top of my list. I now listen to my body, my heart, and my soul.

I feel things—physically, mentally, and emotionally. By listening to myself, I am able to make choices that lift me up, support me, love me, and choose me.

How are you feeling? Are you happy?

Mel x