How Can You Recognize Resistance that Saps Energy and Adds to Stress?

This past year has given us a lot to resist! However holding onto resistance may not be the best way forward regardless of the circumstances.

When we hold a position of resistance it binds and weakens energy, saps our strength and mental clarity.  None of that enables us to maintain well being or move toward our desired goals.

It may seem counterintuitive to release resistance, especially with things that are obviously harmful. A new perspective on resistance may be helpful: Resistance is an inner states that constricts our energy, disorganizes our nervous system and makes us less resilient.

So how can we know if we are resisting? What does it feel like to drop resistance and be “in flow”?
This chart may help with recognition and motivation!

RESISTANCE VS FLOW  

SIGNS OF BEING IN FLOW
Note: These are ideals to be moved toward not end points that are achieved by most mere mortals. At best expect to experience a growing ability to ‘be there’, know when you have slipped out and rejoin the flow when you can.

Energy is high
Time passes quickly
Move toward goals fluidly
Able to shift, back off, change Acceptance —no internal conflict
Ease in relating to others Let go of any conflict w/ease
Work toward resolution
Realistic timing rather than force
Experience being in the present
Feel sense of being centered within a spiritual state
Let go of rigid attitudes, sense of competition, need for retaliation

SIGNS OF RESISTANCE
Note: No self-judgments if you notice these states. We are all learning. A persistent attitude of kindness with ourselves coupled with appreciation for our positive steps builds strength and energetic flow!

 Suffering
Pushing will
Frustration
Energy drained
Experience fear
Feel disempowered
Feeling scattered, nerves frazzled
Fighting stance, tightening of mind and body
Emotions blocked, numbed, inhibited or histrionic
Increase of any physical symptoms related to health
Consumed by problem, cannot stop thinking or feeling about it
Others upset with you, conflicted communication, and poor outcomes