This Independence Day, I thought it appropriate to examine how we each celebrate and protect that namesake in our own lives.
    What does Independence mean to you?
Are there areas of your life where you would like to be less dependent?
How are you setting an example for the young men and women in your life when it comes to living independently?
   Let’s break this idea down into the three core pieces of ourselves – mental, physical and emotional. (These are also the key components of Internal Energy Plus™ that I often mention if you’ve been following this column.)
   Mental independence can mean a variety of things. A few things that come to mind are thinking creatively, thinking clearly and being comfortable with your perspectives and ideas.
     Do you think these aspects are positive traits to have? Why or why not?
Mental clarity: The first step   I believe that when we are able to think clearly and with focused intention, it is much harder for outside influences to knock us off course or get in our way for long. Being clear mentally about our goals is the first step in achieving them. This is also key in self-discovery processes and living authentically in one’s Truth and purpose.
    Physical independence can be both environmental and biological.
    Are you living in an environment that makes you feel safe, healthy and happy?
    Are you able to sustain yourself or do you depend on someone or something else to take care of that for you?
    What steps can you take to improve that for yourself by the Fall?
   Biologically – how are you taking care of your body?
    Do you depend on others to make healthcare decisions for you or are you pro-active in taking care of yourself? (After all, the experts may offer you an opinion, but you are the only one who is ultimately responsible for your health and well-being. The choice is always yours in who and what you listen to.)

Complicated emotions  

  Emotional independence may be the most complicated of the three. Especially in relationships, emotional entanglement often occurs. It is not uncommon for one partner to rely on the other for emotional support.
    What would you do if that person was unavailable?
    Do you know how to support yourself emotionally?
   These can be tough questions. I like these types of exercises because you can track where you are just by writing things down. In a month, re-visit these questions and see if your answers are any different. Chances are, you will continue to evolve your answers as time goes by.
   Our nation’s anthem proudly states that we are the “land of the free and the home of the brave.”
    I believe that in order to live independently and enjoy being free mentally, physically and emotionally, it often takes a great amount of bravery, determination and focused hard work… but the outcome is well worth it!

Best wishes,
Barb Marynowski

Barbara H. Marynowski is a Senior Consultant for Internal Energy Plus and a fully certified black belt instructor through Kang Nei Chin International. She is recognized as an expert in stress management, self-care and personal empowerment. Her passion is helping women live healthier, happier lives free from stress, shame, guilt or fear and she believes everyone has the right to pursue and live a happy, healthy, safe and prosperous life. Appointments and private sessions are available by contacting her directly at RoyalDragonIEP@aol.com or 866-PLUS-4-YOU x708. Join her online daily on the Internal Energy Plus Yahoo! Group at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/INTERNAL_ENERGY_PLUS/

Introduction
Ugly is an Attitude
New Year, New List, New YOU!
Spring Cleaning
Get Focused
Stop Wishing, Start Getting
The Words You Say
The Gift You Give Yourself
Love Yourself
Your Top Qualities
Independence
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