Just as the notion of “holistic” health care has recently shifted the paradigms of physical wellness, lately, I have been pondering the concept of “holistic beauty” as it relates to my work and the general ethos of this website.
Being that I am a seasoned design blogger with a mission of sharing content geared towards creating a “beautiful life”, I am feeling more and more compelled to approach beauty from a more dynamic lens because, let’s face it- a beautiful home, or even a beautiful body, doesn’t mean diddly squat without a well-nourished soul.
As most of us are aware, Western society has become painfully imbalanced- placing too great of an influence on external gratification while completely neglecting matters of the heart and mind. With this considered, it is really no wonder our country is facing such an alarming mental health epidemic.
Struggling with depression and occasional suicidal ideation since early adolescence, I could never really afford to keep things at a comfortable, surface level. Yearning to alleviate my suffering, over the past several years, I have been on quite the inward journey.
After years of devout dedication to meditation, integrative health care, prayer, breath work, plant medicine and Kundalini yoga, my efforts are finally beginning to yield some insightful revelations. Some of which, I feel strongly called to share with you.
Not only am I called to share these revelations as a means of hope and inspiration to others, I also hope to contribute to a shift in our society’s overtly-materialistic values. I want to reinforce the prevailing, yet commonly ignored, spiritual wisdom which reminds us that genuine happiness can only be attained from within.
I can’t with a clear conscious be just another somebody conveying the hollow notion that fulfillment is found thru external conditions or achievements.
While there is nothing wrong with pursuing “nice things”, we have got to be more balanced in our approach.
All of this to say, that I am still going to deliver plenty of interior design, DIY and lifestyle content to you each week. After all, I remain convinced that beauty and physical transformation are still a rewarding component of the human experience. But I also want to provide you with the occasional sprinkle of soul nourishment for good measure.
This monthly series is simply my attempt to start bringing heart and soul back into the equation of what it means to live a beautiful life.
In this month’s personal revelation, I am highlighting the pit-falls of being a risk-minimizing, control freak and the role it has played in my ongoing battle with depression.
So without further ado, I give you my soul hacking message for this brand-new month of March….
“The constant need to micromanage life slowly drains the awe and wonder from the human experience- gradually opening the doors for depressive ruts. When your inner control-freak kicks in, shut that b*tch down and remind her all is well. As life has proven to you time and time again, things are always coming together for your greater good. In the end, control is only an illusion…a fruitless waste of energy.” – Designing Vibes
After years of allowing my Type A, inner control freak to run the show, I now realize just how much it has cost me. I now see just how exhausting it has been to stay within the confines of predictability, security and illusory “perfection”.
This need to control all outcomes and minimize any potential risk has created the ruts responsible for many of my depressive seasons.
How much more fun could I be having as a parent, a wife or even as a creative business owner, if I simply eased up on my grip a bit?
So many beautiful opportunities and magical moments wait for us on the other side of uncertainty.
While it is always a good idea to practice common sense and initiative, we must learn the delicate dance of force versus surrender…of fear versus faith.
As life has proven to me time and time again, it is safe to lean back and enjoy the ride.
I hope this message served as a helpful reminder to my fellow control-freaks out there.
Now get out there and design some good vibes along with a beautiful life.
PS> If you found this message inspiring or helpful, I would greatly appreciate your support. By sharing this post with a friend or on social media, you are helping my small business reach more readers. Thank you so much! xoxo
Mary
Friday 6th of March 2020
Erica I used to be like that too when I was younger. Fortunately sheer exhaustion and 4 kids cured me of that. I still have those tendencies but now I like to kick back , enjoy the mess and relax a bit. Thanks for always being real my friend!!
Designing Vibes
Sunday 8th of March 2020
I can see how 4 kids would force you to chill out. haha! Thanks for your support, friend.
sandi
Wednesday 4th of March 2020
I love this. Thank you for being transparent and real. I look forward to hearing your words as so many people are familiar with these same lines and issues.
Designing Vibes
Thursday 5th of March 2020
Thank you so much for your support, Sandi. It gives me strength to move forward and continue to bare my soul. Wishing you a beautiful day. xoxo
cassie bustamante
Wednesday 4th of March 2020
i could have written this post- totally in the same place right now!
Designing Vibes
Thursday 5th of March 2020
Glad to know I am not alone, my beautiful friend. xoxo
Carol
Wednesday 4th of March 2020
Thank you dear Erica for bringing this series. I feel that I have been out of balance for quite some time while trying to get my life "picture" perfect. I am now ready to work on nourishing my soul. I look forward to your insightful posts.
Designing Vibes
Wednesday 4th of March 2020
It happens to the best of us, Carol. I do my best to keep myself in check, but it is an on-going battle. Thank you so much for taking the time to reach out and share your kind words. Best wishes! xoxo
Carmen Sambursky
Wednesday 4th of March 2020
I can't wait for this new series! I can relate to the message you posted today. I need to ease up and enjoy the ride! Thank you for your honesty and for continuing to share you home improvement ideas with all of us! Many blessings to you!
Designing Vibes
Wednesday 4th of March 2020
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your positive feedback, Carmen. It truly makes my day. Hope you have a great rest of your week. xoxo