Strong in stormy times

The experience of the past time has undoubtedly made us realise how important our resources and strengths are so that the foundation on which we have built our lives so far does not falter too much.

A strong and stable foundation is based on deep and unshakable trust in oneself. Then it can withstand stormy times, especially if it consists of the pillars of our own sovereign nature. 

 

For all those interested, we would like to briefly introduce these pillars below.

 

THE FOUR PILLARS OF LIFE

Each of the Four Pillars of Life is important and therefore they should all receive our attention again and again. Although a particular pillar may temporarily need more effort or attention, they are all equally valuable. Like the four legs of a table - each leg must be strong. No pillar should be sacrificed for the sake of the others. You cannot just build one pillar and neglect all the others because otherwise nothing really important, sustainable and valuable in life can be realised - to use the example mentioned earlier: The table starts to wobble.

The descriptions of the Four Pillars can also be used as a practice exercise. Take enough time to relax beforehand in order to open yourself to possible perceptions and insights.

 

Pillar of relations

The first pillar is the pillar of relationships. It includes your relationships with people, places, material things (property) and situations and conditions in the world. Feel the state of this pillar; the situation of your relationships. Listen within and ask yourself, "Is there anything I need to know about any of my relationships?" Ask this question in such a way that only yes or no can be the answer. If the answer is no, that's fine. If the answer is yes, then look for the relationship that might be. If a relationship comes to mind, ask yourself, "Is there anything I need to know here?" Then stay open to an answer. This will only take a moment, but you should be really present. You can have certain insights during the practice or anytime afterwards (!). What is important is that you remain open to this insight and that you have the willingness and readiness to learn more about your relationships in life.

 

Pillar of work/career and your contribution to the world

Now move on to the next pillar, the pillar that deals with your work/career, with money and your contribution to the world. Feel the state, the condition of this pillar. Continue the same process as before, "Is there anything I need to know about my work and my contribution to the world?" When something comes to mind, ask yourself, "Is there anything (more specific) I need to know here?" Then open yourself up to what that might be. Your insights may take the form of images, ideas, feelings or strong physical sensations, depending on your individual nature and orientation in life.

 

Pillar of health

Then come to the pillar of health, which includes your physical, mental and emotional health. Feel the condition, the state of this pillar. Ask yourself, "Is there anything I need to know about my health or the health of those close to me?" If something comes to mind, ask yourself again, "Is there anything I need to know here?" If so, stay open to what that might be. Look at it. Accept it.

 

Pillar of consciousness development and introspection

Now move on to the pillar of consciousness development and introspection (introspection - is focused on inner experience and puts you in touch with your own inner wisdom). This fourth pillar supports you in being able to perceive and experience both your inner nature and your outer world more consciously. This enables you to make (even) better and more correct decisions in the future. Feel the state of this pillar. Ask yourself, "Is there anything I need to know here?" And as with all the other pillars, when something comes to mind, ask yourself again, "Do I need to know something more specific here?"

The Four Pillars exercise will give you important insights into your life through repetition over time. Some insights have immediate significance, others become relevant over time (!). If you continue this exercise and record your perceptions and sensations, e.g. in a diary, you will find that you will gain insights both from your deeper inner knowing and from the signs that the world reflects to you.

Take your time in perceiving each of the Four Pillars until you feel that the process is complete. This is how you develop an awareness of these four fundamental areas of your life.

When you have practised for a while, you will eventually begin to build, brick by brick (!), a foundation that the world can hardly, if ever, shake or undermine.

It is important to bring balance into these four pillars of life. And the more you succeed in this, the easier it will be to develop and strengthen your own resources.

We support our clients in activating their individual strengths to better cope with challenging situations and to develop a satisfied and healthy lifestyle.

If you need support along the way - the EAP team is always happy to help!