I recently read an article that was written in the Orion Magazine titled the Gospel of Consumption in 2008 but is still very relevant today. It 
talks about how materialism has taken over American culture, today families are working to support a lifestyle full of consumer goods. “We have impoverished our human communities with a form of materialism that leaves us in relative isolation from family, friends, and neighbors. We simply don’t have time for them. Unlike our great-grandparents who passed the time, we spend it. An outside observer might conclude that we are in the grip of some strange curse, like a modern-day King Midas whose touch turns everything into a product built around a microchip.”
I would further argue that modern day life not only creates isolationism but has also robbed many people of their health and well-being. Many of us live in pain, are depressed, overweight and live in a constant state of mental and financial stress. So how do we break free from this viscous cycle?
1) Create more spaciousness in your own life. If we never slow down, we will always be living in a state of stress.
2) Give yourself some financial margin. If you have savings in the bank you are giving yourself peace of mind that you can take some time off if needed, takes some of the pressure off.
3) Think twice before you buy into mainstream consumerism. Do you really need the next newest, latest and greatest gadget?
4) Go out and meet your neighbors… take the time to foster strong relationships within your immediate community.
5) If you are the type that doesn’t use all of your vacation days… now is the time to plan to use them. Think 3-4 day weekends at least 1-2 a month. You don’t have to go anywhere enjoy a staycation right here in Denver… get a massage, enjoy a picnic in the park click here for more tips.
Here’s to changing the modern day paradigm, starting with yourself.
In Health,
Sharon
