Overcoming Resistance to Change in Body and Mind

Hello, Alter Ego Wellness Tribe!

First and foremost, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to this amazing community for all the love and support you shared in response to last week's transformation newsletter. Your stories, feedback, and enthusiasm truly inspire me and reaffirm why I love doing what I do. Together, we are creating a powerful wave of positive change, and I couldn't be more grateful to be part of this journey with you.

Building on the theme of transformation, this week we're diving into an essential aspect of personal growth: overcoming your body's and mind's resistance to change. Change can spark excitement and dread in equal measure. Whether it's a new job, a shift in lifestyle, or a commitment to personal growth, change can feel like an uphill battle. Our minds and bodies are wired for survival, not growth, making us resistant to change. But fear not! In this article, we'll explore why this resistance happens, and most importantly, how to overcome it to embrace the life you desire.

The Survival Instinct

Our brains are incredible, evolved machines designed to keep us safe. From the earliest days of humanity, our brains developed mechanisms to protect us from danger. This is where the fight-or-flight response comes in. When faced with a potential threat, our body goes into survival mode, preparing us to either fight the danger or flee from it. While this was perfect for dealing with sabretooth tigers, it's less helpful when we're trying to implement positive changes like starting a new exercise routine or embarking on a new career path.

Why We Resist Change

When we consider making a change, our brain perceives it as a threat to our stability and comfort. This triggers the fight-or-flight response, causing feelings of anxiety, stress, and resistance. It's a natural response, but one that can be managed and overcome.

1. Acknowledge the Fear

The first step in overcoming resistance is to acknowledge it. Understand that fear is a normal reaction to change. By naming and recognizing it, you take the power away from fear and begin to regain control.

2. Visualize the Positive Outcome

Instead of focusing on the fear, concentrate on the benefits of the change. Visualize the positive outcomes and how they will improve your life. This mental shift can help reduce anxiety and build motivation.

3. Break It Down

Big changes can be overwhelming. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate each small victory along the way, and you'll build momentum and confidence.

4. Develop a Support System

Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage and believe in your growth. Whether it's friends, family, or a coach, having a support system can make the journey less daunting.

5. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction

Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your daily routine. These techniques can help calm the mind, reduce stress, and make the process of change more manageable.

6. Stay Committed

Change doesn't happen overnight. Stay committed to your goals and be patient with yourself. Consistency and perseverance are key to overcoming resistance.

7. Reframe Setbacks

Understand that setbacks are a part of any growth process. Instead of viewing them as failures, reframe them as learning opportunities. Each setback brings valuable lessons that can help you move forward.

8. Avoid Self-Sabotage

Recognize self-sabotaging behaviours, such as procrastination, negative self-talk, or setting unrealistic goals. Replace these with positive habits, affirmations, and achievable milestones. Remember, you deserve to succeed!

Journal Prompts for Resistance to Change

1. Identify Your Fears:

• What changes are you currently facing or considering in your life? Write down any fears or anxieties you have about these changes. How do these fears affect your thoughts and actions?

1. Visualize Success:

• Imagine you've successfully made the change you're working towards. Describe in detail what your life looks like after this change. How do you feel? What positive impacts has this change brought into your life?

1. Break Down Your Goals:

• List a major change or goal you want to achieve. Break it down into smaller, manageable steps. For each step, write down a plan of action and set a realistic timeline for completing it.

1. Support System Reflection:

• Who in your life supports your growth and changes? Reflect on how these people have helped you in the past and how they can assist you now. How can you strengthen your support network?

1. Self-Sabotage Awareness:
   

• Think about a time when you might have self-sabotaged your progress towards a goal. What were the behaviours or thoughts that led to this? How can you recognize and counteract these patterns in the future?

Feel free to reflect on these prompts and let them guide your journey toward embracing and overcoming resistance to change.

Embracing change is a journey of self-discovery and growth. By understanding the natural resistance our bodies and minds have to change, we can develop strategies to overcome it. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. I believe in your ability to transform and thrive. Stay committed, stay positive, and remember that every step you take is a step toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.

Here's to your growth and transformation!

Warmest regards,

Cathryn Benjamin

Mindset & Life Coach | Yoga Teacher | Wellness Advocate

Follow me on Instagram for tips on living authentically, embracing wellness, and fostering a positive mindset.