Breathing Room

Not so long ago, I had dinner at a nearby Chinese restaurant. Upon entering the restaurant, there in the foyer was a fish tank, built into the wall. It served as a window into the main dining area of the restaurant. The dimensions of this fish tank were about 3 feet wide by 12 inches high with a very narrow depth from front to back of about 6 inches. Inside the tank was a huge, beautifully brilliant blue tropical fish that was about 14 inches long. There was very little room for this fish to navigate. It could just barely move a few inches forward and backward, up and down. And that was it. It could not turn around and it certainly could not dart back and forth or escape to the darkened corners of the tank. The dimensions of its space were just too confining for such actions. It was heartbreaking to see. To me, this was the epitome of an aquatic prison. As I watched it for a few moments, the tune from the Cole Porter song, “Don’t Fence Me In”, made its way into my consciousness. n nIt made me think that no matter where we live and what our living environment is like, how very important it is to create breathing room for ourselves. Many of us live fast-paced lives at home and at work and we’re often busily balancing work, family, and other activities. Yet in that great balancing act, we forget about ourselves and our own needs. Having a quiet, clutter-free space where you can unwind, take time out for yourself, and just enjoy your surroundings for a few moments or a few hours is, to me, paramount to living a life free of self-imposed restrictions. It can be as basic as sitting quietly in your favorite chair in your favorite room. The main thing is that it is where you can feel calm, relaxed, and at peace with yourself. n nFor myself, I need lots of room to create, think, and breathe…that’s not to say that I need (or want) gigantic spaces to do this. For me, it’s a clutter thing. When I eliminate clutter in my living space, that frees me up in so many ways…I actually feel better both physically AND emotionally and I can even feel the energy return to my body as a peaceful calm washes over me.n nWhere can YOU go in your home or office for breathing room? Maybe you already have a space that you’ve created just for you. If that’s not available, perhaps you can take over a corner of your bedroom or office, or even the bathroom. In my space, I like having a few scented candles around along with some soft classical music playing, and even sometimes having the phone turned off, n nThis may take some planning on your part, depending upon what you like and want. Plus, if you live with others; I suggest having an open and honest conversation with those household members, sharing your intention. Add your own touches to make it your own and a reflection of who you are. I am certain you will find the benefits rewarding. What simple changes can you make that will turn your space into a nurturing haven…a space for breathing room?nnCoach’s Challenge: Stake out a special space for yourself. Clean it thoroughly. Add those items that will make it calming and inviting for you. Begin this process today and in no time, with little effort, you will have created room to breathe and grow.n