In Flow – Take The Path of Least Resistance

I just returned from a week’s stay in Hawaii, specifically to Princeville, Kauai where I lived for several years. It’s pretty much an annual trek for me like a migratory bird.  I usually look forward to being over there (as one of the most beautiful places in the world, who wouldn’t right?). But this time I found myself restless, fidgety, out of sorts, and even eager to return home (which I did – a day early!). Unheard of to anyone who knows my history with this place and how much it’s meant to me for decades. 

It wasn’t about Kauai itself of course; it’s that I’ve been deeply exhausted and in need of some true rest (physically) and restoration (spiritually). There are facets of my life and work that are in need of some reflection and adjustment, and I realized I’ve been resistant to making necessary changes. In other words, I was in resistance vs flow – and honestly, given this is a key facet in my working as a trusted advisor serving others, I know better. But I’m still human and can still fall prey if I’m not careful.

In metaphysics, the concepts of flow and resistance can be understood in terms of the energetic dynamics of the universe and our own unique individual experiences.

Flow, in a metaphysical sense, refers to the natural movement and alignment of energy. It represents the unrestricted, harmonious, and effortless movement of energy within and around us. It is the state of being in sync with the universal energy or divine flow. Flow is often associated with feelings of ease, grace, abundance, synchronicity, and a sense of being in alignment with one's purpose.

Flow implies a surrendering to the flow of existence, allowing things to unfold without excessive resistance or attachment to specific outcomes. It is often characterized by a sense of connectedness, intuition, and a feeling of being guided by a higher power or universal energy.

When we are in the flow, we experience a sense of purpose, focus, expansion, creativity, and connectedness to the greater whole.

Resistance, on the other hand, refers to the energetic blockages or obstacles that disrupt the natural flow of energy and hinder our spiritual growth and well-being. It can manifest as tension, stagnation, and a sense of struggle or disconnection. We can feel lost, adrift or stuck. Resistance occurs when we resist or deny the natural flow of life, whether through fear, doubt, attachment, limiting beliefs, rigid expectations or negative thinking and behaviors. It can create a sense of contraction, limitation, and disharmony within ourselves and our experiences.

Resistance can prevent us from experiencing the flow of life and can create a sense of disconnection, struggle, and stagnation in our spiritual journey. Practically speaking, how successful are we when we try to swim upstream with life’s situations? As far as I know, only salmon have mastered doing it that way.

Metaphysically, flow and resistance are believed to influence the quality of our reality and the manifestation of our desires. The concept of flow is often associated with practices such as mindfulness, meditation, prayer, or engaging in activities that bring us joy and align us with our authentic selves.

When we choose to align ourselves with the flow of energy -- and release resistance -- we open ourselves to enriching experiences, and to all the abundance and possibilities that the universe has to offer. It is about allowing life to unfold naturally, trusting divine timing and guidance, and being open to receive and co-create with the universe to manifest our most cherished desires. By cultivating a state of flow, we can open ourselves to greater spiritual insights, clarity, and a deep sense of fulfillment.

Reducing resistance in metaphysical terms often involves practices such as energy healing, meditation, visualization, affirmations, and letting go of limiting beliefs. It’s about recognizing and addressing our internal barriers, releasing attachments and expectations, and embracing acceptance, forgiveness, and surrender. We must accept that life’s journey isn’t a smooth straight path. There will be unforeseen detours and obstacles, but like a river we can gracefully maneuver them if we operate from a flow state.

Spiritual practices (as above), personal growth and self-reflection can help us identify and release resistance, allowing us to flow more freely in our spiritual path. By consciously and mindfully releasing resistance and aligning with the flow, we can experience a greater sense of empowerment, joy, and fulfillment in our lives. Gratitude is a great antidote to resistance, and many keep gratitude journals.

I’m a big supporter of Ken Honda’s (author of “Happy Money” among many other titles; he’s the best-selling author in Japan). Ken shared this in one of his recent blogs:

My request of you today is to take a moment and surrender to patience. Give yourself the gift of reflection. Be with the stillness – and trust that once you step into your unique flow of happiness your life doors will open, sometimes quickly, other times as if on their own time. The point of it all is to become deeply present to that flow and be guided by the miracles and gratitude it effortlessly offers.

It's important to note that metaphysical interpretations can vary among individuals and belief systems.  Spirituality is a deeply personal and subjective experience. The concepts of flow and resistance in metaphysics are understood in terms of energetic principles and the interconnectedness of all things. They are often used metaphorically to describe inner states and experiences rather than being literal physical phenomena. They provide a framework for understanding and working with the subtle energies that shape our experiences and reality.

Having said that, there’s no substitute for getting help when you need it. Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals you trust, who you know have your back and who believe in you and your potential wholeheartedly. Seek guidance and counsel from advisors who have walked a similar path and can offer you valuable insights. You are never alone in this journey unless you choose to be.