(Z) ZEST (AtoZChallenge 2019)

Before I gather my scattered thoughts, I would like to thank all of you for being patient. I am blessed that you became a part of my journey and shared some wonderful experiences of your own. It motivated me to carry on. I discovered some great bloggers and I hope we continue to share our stories and thrive. 

***

Zest - in positive psychology is defined as living life with a sense of excitement, anticipation and energy. Approaching life as an adventure; such that one has 'motivation in challenging situations or tasks'. (Source: Wikipedia)

I must say, I have renewed my zest for life. 

There was a time when the mere thought of getting pregnant overwhelmed me. I was not sure if I had the required stamina. But I took a leap of faith. I feel, if I can endure these nine months, I can endure any other situation in life. I wonder if this is my euphoria or, is it the contentment of having completed AtoZ series.

I have conquered my inner fear. I faced physical, mental and emotional stress but with prayer, support and courage, I overcame these. 

I have reached the Zenith of my hopes. I may face trying times ahead, as life is always full of ups and downs. At the same time, I think I can always draw from the reservoir of energy, faith and strength that I have built up during this phase.

I am sure once the baby is born, life will throw a different kind of challenge but I am also confident that I will manage it with patience and perseverance. (Ha Ha... 'I know self-praise is no recommendation')

What I want to convey is that there are moments when you feel a sense of pride. You are upbeat about life in its various hues. 
I am ecstatic because I am in that very moment! 🙏

Do share your thoughts about how have you renewed your zest for life? What motivates you in difficult times?

***

I want to congratulate all of you for completing the challenge in a fabulous way. I have learned a lot through your enlightening posts.

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y

(Y) YOGA DHYAN PRANAYAM (AtoZChallenge 2019)

This is a very straight forward post that you may have guessed by reading the title! 

Before we end this challenge with letter Z, I want to emphasize the importance of Yoga, Pranayama (breath control) and Dhyan (meditation) in our daily lives.

Yoga means union - with the chief aim of uniting the human spirit with the Divine.

During the first trimester, I had stopped all physical activity. I have already written a post about how it had a negative impact on my overall physical health and well being.

I made conscious changes and started practicing very simple and less strenuous Yoga routine. I have been doing this continuously in my second and third trimester though there might have been few breaks in between. (But please consult your doctor if you have a high-risk pregnancy)

A. My routine consists of the following five simple asanas - 

1. Baddha Konasna

2. Tadasana 

3. Virabhadrasana 

4. Sukhasana

5. Shavasana

(You can click on this link to know more about how to do these Asanas. I followed the same.)

B. I do Anulom Vilom Pranayam for 10 minutes while sitting in Sukhasana. (I am attaching a YouTube link if you want to know the technique)

C. I meditate for 7-10 minutes and end the session with Shavasana. I prefer to sit in Silence. (You can take the help of meditation apps or other online meditation instructions) 

The total routine takes me 30 minutes. It is important that we take out half an hour for our well being. It helps to bring physical ease and a state of bliss.

Do share your yoga routine or daily exercise routine (gymming, walking, running, cycling, swimming, etc). Please share any other suggestions that you may have.

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X

(X) XYST (AtoZChallenge 2019)

I have been e(x)uberant throughout the challenge. My blog was dormant for some time and AtoZ helped me channelize my revived enthusiasm by writing, reading and sharing. 

As we near the end of this challenge, e(x)haustion has taken over and I just want to relax. My labor pain may start any time soon and I am scared and e(x)cited at the same time. 

***

Xyst (in ancient Greek and Roman architecture) means a covered portico, as a promenade 

or; (in an ancient Roman villa) means a garden walk covered with trees.

XYST

My journey overall has been pleasant like strolling on xyst, with full awareness. 

Green, lush trees that line the promenade offers shade, support, and comfort. 

It soothes me. Cool breeze brush my hair gently. 

I am very tranquil, at total peace with my serene surroundings and circumstances. 

As I approach the end of the xyst, I want to just sit under one huge tree and observe the world passively. 

I want to soak in the silence before the chirping of the bird welcomes new dawn - the dawn of delight and jubilance!

['Stroll on Xyst' is a metaphor to depict what I feel right now. Soon I will be an involved mother and I might not have the kind of time I have right now until the baby is big enough to spare me some free time 😊]

How do you unwind? Does strolling offer you tranquility? Or share any other thoughts that you might have!

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W

(W) WONDERFUL WOES (#AtoZChallenge 2019)

Every journey is special. Everyone gets their share of weal and woe in life. 

During my journey, I worried too much. One day I came across the following quote and it resonated completely.

Writing for AtoZ Challenge has led to a kind of self-awakening. It has given me strength each day to carry on. I never thought that I would be able to write and read other blogs because during my last term it has been strenuous for me to sit for long hours. I take various breaks and it is difficult to maintain a specific writing schedule. 

I have already written posts about my cravings, troubles of staying away from family during this phase and other mental and physical stress ailing me from time to time.

With the passage of time, I am bewildered at the beauty of life growing within me. I doubted that I could develop maternal instincts but was astonished that I bonded with the baby before her birth. 

I had to forgo weekend vacations, outings, listening to loud music, etc. I was very careful of what I ate generally preferring home cooked food. In short, the baby's interests are prioritized always. 

I recall an incident where I had booked movie tickets for 'Aquaman' in 4D. It was my fault that I had not read the terms and conditions. Once I was at the venue, they denied me entry as it was inadvisable for pregnant mothers to sit on a vibrating and wobbly chair. That was the first time I had planned a 4D movie with my H. But the risks outweighed the fun and we returned home.

Pregnancy has its ups and downs and I term it as 'Wonderful Woes'! It is said - "Without pain, there is no gain."

Do share your experiences of 'wonderful woes'. Do you agree that without pain there is no gain?

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V

(V) VALUES (#AtoZChallenge 2019)

I often wonder how people become what they become? Do genes define our traits? Does our upbringing shape us? Or is it a mix of the two?

I notice and read about people doing wrong to others even if they themselves were not a victim. At other times people who have been victimized become the champions of removing the cause of suffering from society. While there is a third category who prefer inaction and accept their fates. 

What governs us? Are we destined to do what we do?! Or is it due to the values we have imbibed in our growing years?

I am not sure what the right answer is, but I believe that values play a huge role. 

Regarding my personal belief system and values - nothing was explicitly taught to me ever. I inculcated the traits and characteristics through sheer observation of my family members, teachers and friends.

For instance, my maternal grandfather was deeply spiritual. His actions and words exuded universal values, I try to follow his path even today. In contrast, my maternal grandmother was religious. Whereas I am both religious and spiritual. 

My father is a  man of few spoken words and serious towards his work. My mother is a carefree soul who tries to have a work-life balance interspersed with fun. My personality has both their traits. I am serious when needed but also steal my moments of fun and frolic now and then.

My value system, ethics and traits have been assimilated from what I observed around me.

Action speaks louder than words - Children learn what they see their parents do! 

Leading by example is the best way! I hope to do the same. I wish as a family we create an environment for my little kid so that she learns the best from all of us and has the ability to differentiate right from wrong and chose good over evil. 

What are your thoughts on this? What shapes us or defines our personal traits? 

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U

(U) UBUNTU (#AtoZChallenge 2019)

In recent times, indulgent pleasure and instant self-gratification are popularised through advertisements. Consumerism has become a fad. Nuclear families are on the rise. In many cases, people are preferring to live alone than adjust to a partner or live with their family. Our tolerance levels have come down. 

I will narrow down this discussion to one thing - intolerance and contempt of children towards their parents or grandparents (I covered some aspect in this post). 

I ponder - As a generation, why are we less satisfied with our situation and circumstance despite living and experiencing the most advanced and peaceful era in human history? Why do we not accept our shortcomings and are frustrated?

We blame our parents for our failure, financial problems or inability to buy the latest gadgets. We are not content. Stress levels are increasing. Culture of use and throw has become the norm.

Is this attitude reflecting on our relationships as well? Do we think that we can replace our parents with someone better, and; if we don't get a replacement it is better to be alone than to mingle?

The concept of family and society is breaking down. In this context, I think it is important for all of us to understand the essence of Ubuntu!

Ubuntu roughly translates to humanity according to Nguni language spoken in Southern Africa. During the apartheid movement, it was popularised by Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu as universal philosophy. 

It embraces the concept that Human beings can not exist in isolation. I am because you are - an idea that humanity is based on the plural and not the singular. 

'My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can be only human together' - Desmond Tutu.

According to Ubuntu - A person is a person through other persons. For some Ubuntu is akin to soul force, an actual metaphysical connection shared between people which helps us connect to each other. 

As individuals, we are having special talents and strengths, and we must strike a balance between personal success and the community's success. It pushes one toward selfless acts. It emphasizes the need for forgiveness and reconciliation rather than vengeance. It is a belief that we are a part of a greater whole. (Source: here and here).

In Sanskrit, there is a phrase taken from Maha Upanishad - "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" which means 'The whole world is my family'. Can we make this a living reality?

I try to imbibe this philosophy. I want to teach my little kid the importance of Ubuntu! I think we as parents have a huge responsibility towards our next generation and future of the world!

Please share your thoughts! Do you agree with this philosophy or do you have a different world view?

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T

(T) THREE...TWO...ONE (AtoZChalenge 2019)

Three, Two, One and the countdown begins...

Yesterday, after my appointment, I was glad that pregnancy so far has been more or less a smooth sail. I have completed 37+ weeks and in three more weeks, I will welcome a new member of our family (A normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks).

A sequence of events dominated my thought. My life constitutes a series of countdowns. In the race to fulfill each milestone, my life slipped like sand in a closed fist.

Once I was old enough to understand the importance of studies, I took an unnecessary pressure to perform. I always pushed myself to score the highest and excel in each subject. My family also appreciated me; I pushed myself to do even better and I was winning various Maths and Science Olympiads. I felt accomplished. 

I often had to forgo a lot of family functions and outings of my own volition. I comforted by reminding myself time and again - 'To get something, I have to lose something!'

Post class 10th, I moved outside my hometown for higher studies.  During vacations, I felt like a visitor in my house than being a member. Small events and functions were missed more than ever. I was homesick initially and in those moments I kept myself upbeat by thinking about the prospects of a good career. 

I had the illusion that once I compete and get admitted to a professional course, my worries would be over. I was wrong. I got into a reputed Engineering college, the competition grew even severe. Each of us was as talented as the other and landing with the highest paying job was almost everyone's motive. 

After those eventful 4 years in college, corporate life came as a shock. Reviews, meetings and endless work hours were normal. 

To stay ahead in the race, polishing professional degree was a must, so I decided to do an MBA. I was not alone as most of us were pursuing the same path. MBA was another race against time to keep up with various deadlines, projects, tasks and submissions. Phew!

I achieved my goal of a well-paying job. I got recognition for my work within a short period of time and when I was ready to switch, I had offers galore. 

In retrospect, I miss those years spent away from family. Good friends were like family but in college also I had put myself under self-imposed restrictions. It feels that till now, a major part of my life has been all about making a career and nothing else. 

I am not denying the role of a career in one's life. Earning a good living gives freedom to chose and have a decent lifestyle. But I could have been where I am without taking undue pressure! 

Post marriage, I have started to look at things from a fresh perspective. I am trying to loosen up. I am trying to soak in the bliss that everyday life has to offer. I am trying to be in the moment and make the most of it with my loved ones around. 

As I prepare to receive my child, I hope I am able to make her life more balanced. I hope when she grows up she does not feel that the emphasis on one aspect was lopsided. I wish I can teach her to be more carefree and enjoy the gift of the present moment!

Do you regret the way you have spent the majority of your life? During growing years, was one aspect of your life more emphasized than the other? Do you wish to do things differently if given a chance! 

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S

(S) SHE (#AtoZChallenge 2019)

She is elegance

She is beauty

She is enigma

She is sublime

Symbol of endurance

Epitome of love

Sign of ultimate sacrifice

She is nature

She is nurturer

She is supreme 

She is divine

I bow to thee

I bow to SHE!

I want to thank all the women who have played a crucial role in my life.  

My Mother carried me in her womb and gave me life. She has been my constant critic and guide.

My grandmothers have looked after me and nurtured me when my mom was still completing her medical studies.

My maids in kindergarten who cleaned me with smile whenever I was soiled.

My teachers in school who have taught me language and other subjects. I would not have been literate without them.

My friends with whom I have enjoyed life as a carefree soul.

My warden in hostel who was strict but also very kind and reasonable.

I want to show my appreciation - 

To all the women who have been playing their role so well

To all the women who forgo their dreams and desires for their family

To all the women whose role is never appreciated by many

To all the women who live in anonymity for bringing forth humanity...

Let me know about a woman(women) who has(have) been your constant support.  Or share about a woman who has left an everlasting impression on you because of her sheer grit and determination.

[I appreciate the complimenting role that Men (father, brother, grandfather, husband) play in this world. But I will keep that post for some other day.]

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R

(R) READING AND OTHER HOBBIES (#AtoZChallenge 2019)

It was difficult for me to find time for hobbies with busy office schedule. I was working on a business plan simultaneously. The weekends were reserved for completing the pending work and doing household chores. Exercise and meditation had to be squeezed in the schedule as well. 

With pregnancy, I took a detour. I deliberately reduced the workload and I started paying attention to various hobbies -

1. Reading - I have always loved reading fiction and non-fiction. To manage time, I listened to audiobooks while commuting to and from office. I also have a kindle. Still, I enjoy reading a paperback book. 

I finished reading the following - 

a. Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari

b. Inner Engineering by Sadhguru

c. Adiyogi by Sadhguru

and I am still reading the following - 

d. Homo Deus by Yuval Noah Harari

e. Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramhansa Yogananda

I have provided Goodreads link in case you want to know more about these books.

2. Listening to a Guru - My family members suggested that I read Indian Epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita during this phase so that spiritual and sattvic thoughts dominate my mind. But I wanted to listen to someone narrate these universal stories to me. 

The role of Guru in Indian tradition is very important. I am glad that I found one in Sadhguru. I started listening to stories and anecdotes from these epics narrated by him on YouTube! There are a plethora of such videos that have been narrated and uploaded by others as well.

3. Painting - I love to paint sometimes. I took the help of online tutorials to draw. 

I painted an Elephant and Owl in acrylic and kept it in the main hall of my house.

I also learned to paint using soft pastels and drew Lord Krishna and Lord Ganesha. I hope you like it. 

I have framed Lord Krishna's painting and kept a red flute near him since he loves to play the flute!

I even tried glass painting for the first time! I have kept Money-plant in that bottle now.

4. Cooking - I had to take precautions that I do not eat outside and I had to find ways to satiate my food cravings and hunger pangs. I started cooking my favorite dishes with more enthusiasm - learning the nitty gritty from online food blogs.

It is said mother and child share an intricate bond from the time the baby is conceived in the womb. Mother's state of mind affects the child's state of mind and growth. These hobbies enriched me with positive thoughts and helped me stay focused in the present moment.

What are your hobbies? Do you find time to pursue those? Please share your thoughts! 

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q