Part 2 - The Metabolic Power of Rhythm, Pleasure & Thought - Unleashing the Energy Within

In Part 2 of the metabolic puzzle, we’ll have a look at 3 little known areas of life and lifestyle that can have significant impacts on our Metabolism.

Master Rhythm and you will Master Metabolism

Our lives are very intertwined with rhythm.  From the changing of seasons to the ebb and flow of ocean tides, to the incredible precise chemical and hormonal rhythms of our body that guide the cycle of life and death.

This natural order is essential for our well-being, because humans thrive in environments where there is balance and synchronicity. When life gets out of balance, be it in our external surroundings or internal mechanisms, dis-ease can show up, paving the way for disease to take over.

Rhythms are also deeply intertwined with our habits - the things we do regularly, almost instinctively and most often mindlessly. By becoming mindful of what is happening in life, we can create ways to enhance the rhythms / routines in our lives such as regular eating patterns, balanced nutrition, rest, and sleep.  Humans do very well under a state of Homeostasis - which is a state of balance among all of the bodily systems needed to survive. 

The Metabolic Power of Pleasure

When we think of pleasure, a host of experiences come to mind - from guilty pleasures to simple joys that make us feel satisfied and content.  The concept of pleasure, when we think about it mindfully, can be a powerful tool for enhancing metabolic health.

Epicurus, known for his philosophy of enjoying life's pleasures in moderation, emphasized the importance of wise choices in seeking pleasure. He spoke of a balanced approach, choosing and savoring pleasurable experiences, including food, with mindfulness and intention.

"It is impossible to live pleasurably without living wisely, well, and justly, and it is impossible to live wisely, well, and justly without living pleasurably" Epicurus

In our modern world, the relationship between pleasure and food can be complex. Some may battle with food as a source of pleasure, while others may indulge in the delight of food without restraint. Finding the middle way, embracing healthy pleasures, and moderating indulgence are key to maintaining a balanced approach to pleasure and nourishment.

It's also crucial to recognize that there is no inherently good or bad food - rather, it's our perception and association with food that impacts our body's chemistry. Take chocolate, for instance, where conflicting opinions exist regarding its nutritional value. In truth, balance is key, focusing on the quality of the food and how it makes us feel both during, and after we eat it.

Thoughts become Things

Our thoughts have a significant influence on our metabolic health and overall well-being. The power of positive thinking and mindfulness can shape our physiological responses, impacting everything from hormone levels, including stress hormones, to immune function.

By focusing on a positive mindset and bringing in practices like meditation, visualization, kindness and compassion, along with cognitive reframing, we can promote metabolic harmony and reduce the harmful effects of stress on our bodies. Thought patterns that are filled with optimism & gratitude, can create the best environment for metabolic balance and vitality.

When it comes to emotional eating, our unhappy thoughts will inevitably drive us to seek food to soothe ourselves. Over time, this behavior can turn into a mindless action, which then becomes an unhelpful habit. By being the guardian of our thoughts, we can then head off the unhelpful behavior and begin to change the neural pathways in our brain to create new helpful habits. 

By nurturing a healthy relationship with our thoughts and emotions, we can take advantage of their transformative potential to improve and enhance metabolic health and overall vitality.

Ultimately, by embracing the elements of rhythm, pleasure, and thought, and how they all play a part in our lives, we can take advantage of their untapped metabolic power to enhance our quality of life.

If you would like to find out more, then connect with me HERE and let's chat about how I can help you.