With the arrival of Veterans Day, I find myself reflecting about an experience I had this summer at the Pentagon.
Between June and August, I was part of a team of touch therapy professionals who provided Zero Balancing, Reiki, reflexology and massage services for personnel based at the Pentagon. Several members of our team belong to the American Massage Therapy Association’s Virginia chapter.
I wasn’t sure what to expect since it was the first time that the Pentagon had held this type of event. It turned out to be a very positive experience.
As a Reiki and Zero Balancing practitioner, I understand how the use of gentle touch can increase energy, relieve pain and move my clients toward wholeness. But I am also someone who likes to learn about different ways to tap the internal energy that can enable each of us to lead more fulfilling lives.
During my visits to the Pentagon, a few things struck me.
Coworkers can affect your energy level. The Pentagon is one of the world’s largest office buildings, with 6.34 million square feet and approximately 26,000 military and civilian employees. Seeing that many people in one place leaves quite an impression. Whether we work in an office of twenty or two thousand, each of us can take advantage of the opportunities for synergy and collaboration that exist within our organization.
Diversity is a key aspect of an energetic workplace. As I walked through the Pentagon, I saw men and women, younger and older professionals, military members and civilians. They come from different cultures and economic backgrounds. Diversity fosters different perspectives and new ideas – something that can’t happen when you limit your interaction to people who view the world the same way you do.
People derive energy from a devotion. Although they come from all walks of life, what unites military service members is their steadfast dedication to their country. I am grateful for this devotion, which enables all of us to enjoy our freedom as Americans.
Your lifestyle has everything to do with energy levels, of course. That will be a subject for another post. For now, I hope these observations get you thinking about what makes you energetic. And to the veterans and active duty members out there, thank you for your service.