FOUR FOR FRIDAY 30: SELF
"It is possible as soon as you say it is so.”
1. WOD: Workout Of The Day
PUSH/PULL Combo
5 Sets
A simple yet effective upper-body workout you can do once or twice this week. 🙂
Exercises (12 reps each):
2DB Alternating Chest Press
Machine Seated Row (Alternating Pulls)
2DB Alternating Shoulder Press
2DB Dumbbell Bent-Over Row → Curl
Body Weight Pull-Ups
Warm-Up & Cool-Down:
Dynamic Warm-Up: 10–15 minutes
Cool-Down & Stretching: 10–15 minutes
2. Movie That Caught My Attention : Perfect Days (Hulu)
"Perfect Days" (2023) is a Japanese drama film directed by Wim Wenders, starring Kōji Yakusho, who won Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival for his performance. The film was also Japan’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards and received critical acclaim for its quiet, meditative storytelling.
Premise:
The movie follows Hirayama, a seemingly ordinary man in Tokyo who works as a public toilet cleaner. Despite his repetitive, mundane job, he finds deep fulfillment in his simple daily routines—listening to old cassette tapes, reading books, and taking photographs of trees. Through small encounters with others, the film slowly reveals layers of his past, hinting at a more complex life than what meets the eye.
Why It’s Important:
A Celebration of Simplicity – "Perfect Days" captures the beauty of everyday life, reminding audiences that happiness is often found in the smallest moments.
Meditative and Zen-like – The film reflects Japanese aesthetics and philosophy, emphasizing mindfulness and presence in one’s daily routine.
Human Connection – Though largely introspective, the film highlights the way brief human interactions can bring warmth, meaning, and even change.
A Tribute to Working-Class Dignity – It sheds light on people often overlooked in society, showing that every job, no matter how small, has dignity and purpose.
Themes & Messages:
Mindfulness & Living in the Moment – The film encourages slowing down and appreciating life’s simple pleasures.
Routine vs. Freedom – It explores how structure and routine can be both comforting and restrictive.
Memory & The Past – Subtle hints about Hirayama’s past suggest deeper themes of regret, choice, and finding peace.
Human Connection & Loneliness – While Hirayama lives a quiet life, his small interactions with strangers show the power of kindness.
Final Takeaway:
"Perfect Days" is a deeply meditative, life-affirming film that finds poetry in the mundane. It’s a reminder to slow down, appreciate small joys, and find meaning in the everyday—something profoundly relevant in today’s fast-paced world.
3. Book Of The Week: The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
"The Let Them Theory" is a transformative self-help book by Mel Robbins, released in late 2024. It introduces a straightforward yet profound approach to personal empowerment and emotional well-being.
Premise
At its core, the "Let Them" theory encourages individuals to relinquish the need to control others' actions, opinions, or judgments. By adopting the mindset of "let them," readers are guided to focus on their own responses and well-being, rather than being consumed by external factors beyond their control. This shift promotes inner peace and reduces stress associated with managing others' behaviors.
Why It’s Important
Since its release, the book has resonated with many readers, becoming a bestseller and sparking widespread discussions. Its core message is both liberating and practical, making it easy to implement in daily life.
Themes and Messages
The central theme of the book revolves around personal liberation through acceptance. Key messages include:
Focus on Self – Prioritize your own goals, happiness, and reactions, acknowledging that you can't control others.
Embrace Authenticity – Allow others to be themselves, which fosters genuine relationships and reduces interpersonal conflicts.
Personal Accountability – Pairing "let them" with "let me," emphasizing the importance of personal choices and boundaries.
My Thoughts
This is a book I enjoyed. Its simplicity and storytelling made the concepts feel easily applicable. Robbins presents a mindset shift that is both practical and refreshing, making it a valuable read for anyone looking to reduce stress and embrace more freedom in their relationships.
4. Key Concept: Japanese Enso
The Ensō (円相) is a sacred symbol in Zen Buddhism, often depicted as a hand-drawn circle, either open or closed, painted in a single, fluid brushstroke. It represents enlightenment, simplicity, imperfection, and the beauty of the present moment.
Symbology & Meaning
Wholeness & Unity – A completed Ensō symbolizes completeness and the interconnectedness of all things.
Imperfection & Wabi-Sabi – If drawn with a gap, it reflects the idea that imperfection is beautiful and that things are always evolving.
The Present Moment – The Ensō is drawn in one spontaneous stroke, emphasizing mindfulness and being fully present.
Freedom & Creativity – Since no two Ensō circles are the same, it symbolizes personal expression and individual experience.
Why It’s Important
Zen Philosophy in a Single Stroke – The act of painting an Ensō embodies the essence of Zen: meditation, non-attachment, and embracing imperfection.
Used in Calligraphy & Meditation – Zen monks often paint Ensō as a form of moving meditation, expressing their inner state at that moment.
A Reminder of Simplicity – In a world full of distractions, the Ensō encourages clarity, simplicity, and focus on what truly matters.
How It Can Be Helpful to Individuals
Mindfulness & Letting Go – The Ensō teaches that perfection is not the goal—being present and authentic is.
Reducing Anxiety & Control – Since it’s drawn in a single stroke, it mirrors life: once done, you cannot go back and fix it, reminding us to accept things as they are.
Self-Expression & Growth – Everyone’s Ensō is unique, just like their journey. Practicing Ensō drawing can be a form of personal reflection.
A Visual Anchor for Meditation – Gazing at or drawing an Ensō can be a calming practice, helping bring awareness to the present moment.
Disclaimer: These tools are simply options, and what works for one person may not work for everyone. I neither encourage nor discourage their use. Ultimately, the decision of how to use this information rests with you. The information provided regarding the use of supplements is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, particularly if you have pre-existing medical conditions, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking medications. Supplements have the potential to interact with medications or cause adverse effects in certain individuals. Furthermore, the efficacy and safety of supplements can vary based on factors such as dosage, formulation, and individual response. Supplements should be approached with caution and should not be viewed as a substitute for proper medical diagnosis, treatment, or management of health conditions. Statements regarding specific supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always adhere to the instructions provided by the manufacturer and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns.
