Sluggish

Do you have days that are very slow but not frustratingly so? The slow pace feels governed by a pleasantly tired body which leads to an overly relaxed state of mind. This particular feeling is not induced by control substances or fatigue, per se. It’s similar to the satisfactory tiredness we feel following a day of intense physical labor. The main difference is that this type of sluggishness occurs after a satisfying night’s sleep. Caffeine doesn’t make it go away, yet that is OK.

I’m enjoying that state of mind right now, as I write these words. This feeling is luxurious and mellow, but not too mellow. It’s a sensation I haven’t felt since over a year or so ago. The feeling isn’t lethargy; that term is too clinical.

Perhaps you experience this positive type of sluggishness from time to time, too. It’s a deliciously indulgent sensation, but is not laziness nor depression. It’s like a biological switch has activated the slow-down mode of mind and body. You feel slow, yet quite alert. You might say that it’s nature’s way of inducing you to stop and smell the roses.

Ironically, this mind-body state is uplifting if you have been feeling lethargic or down and out. It’s mellowing if you have been feeling uptight or grumpy. Could it be a natural form of meditation? It might be a similar to the state of consciousness that requires secret techniques as practiced by Tibetan lamas in solitary retreats. One feels patient without forcing patience.

Analyzing this morning’s mellowness, at first I wondered if it was caused by a calorie deficit. Such a condition causes a reduction in metabolism and slowness. I nixed that idea, because calorie deficit is unpleasant and results in hunger and thirst. Today’s state of mind and body is pleasant. It might be optimal if I stop analyzing it.

My lifestyle is rather healthy. I rarely eat pasta or pizza anymore. I’ve been getting better quality sleep. I take better care of myself in other ways, too. Mentally, I feel naturally upbeat as usual, my attitude is balanced progressively. That is, I feel good about the present and the future. I feel pretty good for a man of my age.

I’m reticent to analyze it any longer. This mind-body state seems to be another way of being fully alive and functioning but at a naturally slow pace. There is no spiritual or intellectual laziness. There is no need to be awakened from lethargy. It’s just another passing state of being. Thankfulness is the best response.

Ciao
The Blue Jay of Happiness quotes the Ancient Roman poet, Ovid. “Thou seest how sloth wastes the sluggish body, as water is corrupted unless it moves.”