Harmony and Me

I was a big Elton John fan as a teenager. I mean BIG. I had all his albums through Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, even the little known ones like Tumbleweed Connection, and then his music changed and I just wasn’t “into it” anymore. I moved on to the Eagles Hotel California,

But oh, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. I played that two album set so much, the skips and scratches were becoming a part of the music. So, anytime I hear the word “harmony,” I think of that album. Harmony and me, we’re pretty good company.

But what is harmony? Well, in music, harmony is when two notes, played together, produce a pleasing sound. They work together well. This crosses over into visual arts. Paintings can display a harmony of color. So what does it mean to have harmony in your life?

The short answer to that question is, your life is harmonious when everything clicks. All the parts of your life – relationships, works, health, play, etc. – are in balance, and you are living in accordance with your core values and beliefs. Harmony in your relationships and at work is about balance between people and finding common ground. It doesn’t mean everything in your life is perfect, or we’re always going to agree. And it doesn’t mean you stick your head in the sand and pretend life is all rainbows and butterflies. It means finding a sense of peace and balance in spite of all that’s going on around you.

In today’s noisy world, it may be hard to find harmony, what with the news feeds, and social media, and taxes coming due. With harmony, you’re less anxious and stressed, it’s easier to deal with challenges, and you can be more present for the people in your life, so it’s pretty important. Here are some things you can do to bring more harmony into your life:

Connect with nature
I know you see this on every list I do, and it’s just that important! Nature heals, nature calms, and nature brings balance. So get outside!

Be mindful
Again, broken record. Observing the world around you without judgment, staying fully present, is the best ways to find peace and harmony in your life. I can’t say this enough.

Make time for yourself
Each day, every day, carve out some time to be alone, even if just for a few minutes. Create a little personal sanctuary in a quiet corner of your home or outside, and make that your sit spot. No noise, no devices, no distractions – just observe. It will help you to quiet your mind and observe without judgment.

Live in harmony with others
Volunteer, attend community events, create community, spend time with family and friends. Practice empathy and compassion, and don’t be too rigid in your ways. Be willing to see all sides and be open to compromise.

Disagree with kindness
You don’t have to agree or even pretend to agree with everything and everyone. Learn how to disagree with kindness and try to see others’ points of view. While you may not see eye to eye with someone, you can still communicate with compassion and empathy, even when they’re not your friend. Remember not to take anything personally. Don’t get offended because it’s really not directed at you (even though it feels like it at times).

Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Open up with friends and family about how you’re feeling. You may be overwhelmed either physically or emotionally (or both) and they are your tribe, here to help. Need some cheering up? Just say so!

Find a hobby or activity you enjoy
It might be a solo hobby like reading or you might join a fitness swimming group. Doing things you like can make you feel more in harmony.

Practice Self-care
Take care of yourself physically and mentally to share your best self with the world.

As you invite more harmony into your life, be open to a process that works best for you. Life isn’t one-size-fits-all, so the above are some ideas for your consideration. Shutting out the noise is hard and the benefits are greater peace and balance.