Meditation: Good (too much meditation: bad)

I recently read an article from NPR on the downsides of intense meditation (you can read it here).

I thought it was worth sharing because it highlights an important idea — balance.

So that’s the theme for this week’s letter.

Too much of a chill thing (even mediation) isn’t necessarily better.

Balance means you’re not hanging out in any one extreme. Because too much of a good thing can start having the opposite effect.

In the article, they point out how extreme meditation (10+ hours a day for multiple days) can lead to mental health deterioration, emotional distress and other side effects.

Mind you, this is obviously an extreme example. Most of us aren’t meditating for that long. But it’s still a reminder about being cautious around the extremes.

Like how too much spinach can cause a formation of calcium-oxalate, or how even too much water can be a problem.

Again, these are extremes and most of use don’t need to worry about them.

And of course, I’m no medical expert or nutritional pro.

But the takeaway remains — balance and listening to your body/mind is crucial.

A carefree life is one that appreciates balance. Strict protocols or lifestyle dogmas aren’t chill.

It’s why I stay flexible with everything. Let’s use my diet as an example.

While I prefer vegan/vegetarian foods (simply because I like the taste and it makes me feel better), I’m also super flexible.

Especially when I travel!

Because enjoying some izakayas and late-night yakiniku with friends in Tokyo is well worth it and makes me happier overall.

For me, it’s all about the 80/20 rule, which has two meanings:

• ~80% healthy, ~20% casual, or

• 80% of your results comes from just 20% of your actions (the Pareto Principle)

I say, as long as it’s not hurting anyone (or yourself) and you’re not dealing with an addiction or developing a bad habit, then indulge — for the sake of balance!

Don’t feel bad about enjoying the things you truly want to do (because you feel like you’re not “supposed” to).

Like that random weekend trip to Taco Bell or binge-watching Gilmore Girls all weekend…or cake.

Balance makes me happier and more chill. As long as you don’t swing too far in any one direction, you’re good.

Alright, that’s all I’ve got for you this week.

Later! ✌️

• *Etiquette In Japan to Know

• Meditation for Creativity + Clarity (my routine)

• Self Care for Creatives (8 pillars)

• How to Do More of What Makes You Happy

* = new post