The fourth level of truth involves detachment from the past. Be aware of old reactive patterns that support assumptions and tendencies to be self-righteous, hurt or angry. Take time to bring yourself to the present moment and ponder the reality of what was said or done. Look for common patterns in your reactions, discerning what actually happened and the meaning behind the event.

For instance, if someone close to you repeatedly triggers hurt, question the stories you hold about this relationship. Perhaps you have built a long-held belief that this person is controlling and aggressive which may have been true years ago but may no longer be true in the current moment. Truth at this level reflects the reality of the moment without preconceived biases.

The third level of truth involves awareness of motivating forces within. Truth in its purest sense is rooted in love. Knowing what motivates you is essential for understanding deeper truths within.

For instance, if you find yourself gossiping about another person’s misfortune, question your motivation to see if it is based on a need to elevate yourself at the cost of others. If so, the real truth may be unresolved issues from the past, based on insecurity and perceived powerlessness. Be open and willing to uncover deepest truths within, yearning to be acknowledged and released.

Truths are extremely important when it comes to maintaining wellness. There are four levels of truth and last week covered the first level which involves facts. The second level of truth involves deep awareness of emotions and body sensations. Recognizing physical symptoms is key to opening oneself up to core feelings that may have been subconsciously hidden for a very long time.

For instance, many people hide hurt through expressions of anger while others cover anger with sadness or despairing tears. Awareness of what is happening in the body helps to distill truths that can be ultimately conveyed to others. The very act of allowing truths to come forth is healing and transformative in itself, bringing more peace and contentment in life.

Truths are seldom fixed. Truths may reveal one’s perspective in the moment or what feels right for that individual. On a deeper level, truths may also reveal core emotions or profound thoughts. When truths are allowed to surface, the flow of vital life energy within is enhanced.

There are four levels of truth that will be covered this month. The first level involves facts, revealing exactly what is happening in the moment without exaggeration or distortion. Remaining neutral and objective is key. For instance, if you notice someone looking at themselves in a mirror, you would simply state “He/she is looking in the mirror.” Any distortion involves your interpretation such as “He/she loves to look at him/herself.” Truths based on pure facts reflect the reality of the moment.

In this final post on the topic of integrity, one key point to remember at all times is to refrain from concealing your truths. Anytime we are dishonest with ourselves, we compromise our integrity in ways that deplete quality of life. Walking the noble road involves honesty to the degree it best serves you and others.

Wonder is a skill rooted in spirit. Speak from a level of wonder with great curiosity! Listen appreciatively to another person. The potential to shift relationship dynamics in positive ways is absolutely powerful when you do this.  Maintain an open mind and be ready to witness the magic of wonder unfolding before you!

Another skill for elevating integrity is to practice listening in ways that promote deeper understanding. Curiosity combined with respect for others strengthens connections in powerful ways. Set intentions to explore with tenderness and open-ended questions that support win-win outcomes.

For instance, using the same example from two weeks ago, if you had to suddenly cancel a social event you previously committed to, the follow up conversation might include questions such as “What specifically about this cancellation leaves you feeling sad?” or “How can I help to ease your disappointment?” Saying either of these will help bridge the divide and build stronger ties into the future.

Last week’s post emphasized the importance of communication skills for enhancing integrity. Speaking honestly and openly is vital over blaming and coercion. Standing up for oneself and communicating the truth, free of others needs and demands, is essential to on-going wellness.

Authentic speech is a skill that can be developed and practiced throughout one’s life. The key is to check in with body sensations and make sure your choice of words aligns with bodily needs. For instance, if you feel physical tension in your body or butterflies in your stomach, stand firm with your intentions and choose words that support wellness. You might choose to say something like “I really can’t commit to this anymore since my stress levels are quite high right now. I need to withdraw for a few months until I’m feeling stronger and more balanced.”  Prioritizing personal wellness supports win-win outcomes as others will get a healthier and happier you!

Integrity is revealed through our choice of words. Speak in a way that contributes to greater understanding between you and others. Practice expressing yourself openly and honestly, sharing exactly what is happening for you in the moment. Do it in such a way that evokes wonder and maintains a sense of connection as opposed to disconnection and blame.

For instance, if you had committed to hosting a social event and discover on the morning it is scheduled to happen that you can no longer commit due to unforeseen circumstances, you might choose to say something like “I’m really sorry that I need to postpone this event due to unexpected circumstances that arose this morning. I will explain the details to you the next time we talk and for now, I hope you understand and will be able to attend this event once I reschedule it.” Another way of communicating if you are no longer able to host the event at all, you might say “Something has come up this morning that I can no longer commit to this event. I apologize for this and hope you understand. I will explain the details to you later tonight.”

Mindfully strengthen your level of communication skills each time a situation involving personal integrity arises. The benefits are enormous as your relationship with others will strengthen alongside communication skills! By modelling integrity, others will learn firsthand through your wise choice of words and moral acts.

Integrity is imperative not only for mind fitness but for overall fitness as well. Integrity supports physical vitality, emotional balance and spiritual wellness on a deeper level. Without integrity, a lack of harmony exists within oneself and the external world.

There are four essential skills necessary for cultivating integrity. The first two essential skills were covered in the last two posts. The third essential skill involves commitment through conscious agreements with oneself and others. What this means is taking full responsibility for your words and actions in life. At the most basic level, say what you mean and mean what you say. Practice being impeccable with your speech. Anything short of that creates a divide within yourself and others. Not only are you letting yourself down when agreements are broken, but others as well.

We are all here to learn from one another. Model integrity by consciously selecting agreements that you can fully commit to. Know how to say no to agreements that you do not want to make. Access body wisdom to select agreements that support win-win outcomes.