Early in my adulthood, I learned from reading author Rumer Godden the Indian Proverb that says “Everyone should think of themselves as a house with four rooms: physical, mental, an emotional, and a spiritual. Most of us tend to live in one room most of the time, but unless we go into every room every day, even if only to keep it aired, we are not a complete person.” Much of my life I’ve referred back to this proverb, whether to remind myself or sharing its wisdom with others; as a teacher, I’ve shared it with many students over the years.

     My search for a deeper meaning and purpose in my life began as a little girl because I was thrust into adulthood at an early age and didn’t have the normal upbringing of my peers. I lived on my own and seeked out ways to living a more meaningful life. I’ve read many books and often returned to my interest in the Simplicity Movement to find balance in my everyday life. I’ve enjoyed books such as The Circle of Simplicity by Cecile Andrews and Joe Domingues and Vicki Robin’s book Your Money or Your Life: Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence; I’ve been a huge follower of Wayne Dyer, Louise Hay, and Cheryl Richardson; and I’ve learned a lot from life experience. When my life gets overwhelming and time escapes me, I tend to fall back, reflect, and make another list; I’m a list person. I make lists for almost everything, and like many people, I get a thrill crossing off items on my lists. But there are plenty of times that my lists are unreasonable and it is nearly impossible for me to get everything accomplished. I get overwhelmed and the “self-talk” becomes negative and I need to get myself back on track. It’s at these times that I need the simplicity and lessons of this Indian Proverb.

     I have used this proverb when I counsel others and have tried to engage in it for myself, but lately, I’ve realized that I have not spent enough quality time in each of my rooms. David Wann, author of Simple Prosperity: Finding Real Wealth in a Sustainable Lifestyle, states, “All the baggage we carry (physical, emotional, and psychological) is getting very heavy; it’s time for us to reinvent a more moderate economy based on how nature actually works and what humans actually need” (24). So, to create balance and a commitment to myself, I’m embarking on a more formal version of my practice by starting this blog and a sort of pilgrimage to self.

     I have thought of myself as A House With Four Rooms since learning about the proverb, and even more so lately. This blog or project engages in changing my perspective, connecting in life, and nourishing the moments; my project began with growing, managing, and sustaining a lifestyle. According to Wann, “When we understand who we are and what we want, we have a greater sense of clarity and direction” (28). I want my lifestyle to reflect the complete person I want to be, so I will begin with a visit to each of my rooms; I might not spend a great deal of time in each of the rooms each day, but I will at least go in and open a window to air it out.

     I invite you to join me in this practice by reflecting on your own four rooms. You will find blog posts in “Stepping Stones from A Pilgrimage to Self” Lifestyle Blog. 

Contact me for more information on the coaching membership. I welcome you, dear pilgrim.

     Please receive my gift: a copy of my article “10 TIPS to “Airing” Out Your Four Rooms:PDF Download Here

Cheers,

Lisa