In biology, catabolism is an energetic process of breaking down, from the molecular level on out, to affect an entire organism. Conversely, anabolism is the building up of an organism. The terms can also be applied to the human as a thinking, feeling, belief-driven organism that reacts to internal and external stimuli. The body will attempt to maintain homeostasis – that is, to keep itself in a balanced anabolic state – however, catabolic thoughts can have a profound effect on not only physical, but, mental and emotional health as well. Anyone interested in wellness should take note.
Our consciousness (awareness) and unconsciousness (our repeating patterns to which we become blind) generate energy. In the case of catabolic energy, repeating a learned behavior in this range can result in disease, poor relationships, depression, anger, and general angst about life. Becoming aware of what drives us on an unconscious level can allow us to shift to an anabolic state to bring about healing and an improvement in satisfaction with life. Sometimes we get stuck in our unconscious processes and need a little help to open our awareness. This is when a coach can serve as a facilitating partner in the sustainable process of growth.
Of the seven levels of consciousness as taught by iPEC (Institute of Professional Excellence in Coaching), at the base is Level 1. Emotionally, Level 1 is catabolic, and it feels bad. It is described by some as a state of hopelessness, and in this state, people might present as depressed and lack engagement with other people and activities. Those predominantly experiencing this level might feel like “losers” – people who just can’t dig themselves out of a hole that either they dug or someone pushed them into. They may be living in a fog and feel controlled by people and events around them, truly powerless and victimized. The first step to crawling out of this level and shifting consciousness is to actively develop an awareness of how this presents in important aspects of life: work, family, and social contacts. With an iPEC coach asking questions and validating the individual, a client is able to name these feelings and the possible reasons behind them to shift into a more energetic state.
Level 2, while still catabolic, moves a person to a higher level of consciousness. Now there is more energy to actually set a person to action. Level Two is the conflict level. People exhibiting a lot of Level 2 energy may appear angry, be full of defiance, and may treat life as though it is a struggle. Leaders operating at this level often get results through force or coercion. They might be seen as control freaks. This catabolic energy is exhausting to the leader and everyone around. Coworkers generally do not trust or admire leaders with this predominant style of leadership. Living in Level 2 energy is a challenge to change, but a coach is invaluable in guiding those experiencing a lot of Level 2 energy to name and reframe the events that cause the emotions surrounding them.
Shifting into Level 3 begins the anabolic energy process, but before we go there, in Part 2 of this 3-part series of posts – The Benefits of Catabolic Energy – I will show how, once familiar with higher levels of consciousness, we can shift back into catabolic energy briefly to increase opportunities for self-care and bonding, as well as finding the fire to get things done. You might say from a higher level, “It’s all good.” I invite you to meet me in Part 2!
Working the energy,
Coach Leona
Our consciousness (awareness) and unconsciousness (our repeating patterns to which we become blind) generate energy. In the case of catabolic energy, repeating a learned behavior in this range can result in disease, poor relationships, depression, anger, and general angst about life. Becoming aware of what drives us on an unconscious level can allow us to shift to an anabolic state to bring about healing and an improvement in satisfaction with life. Sometimes we get stuck in our unconscious processes and need a little help to open our awareness. This is when a coach can serve as a facilitating partner in the sustainable process of growth.
Of the seven levels of consciousness as taught by iPEC (Institute of Professional Excellence in Coaching), at the base is Level 1. Emotionally, Level 1 is catabolic, and it feels bad. It is described by some as a state of hopelessness, and in this state, people might present as depressed and lack engagement with other people and activities. Those predominantly experiencing this level might feel like “losers” – people who just can’t dig themselves out of a hole that either they dug or someone pushed them into. They may be living in a fog and feel controlled by people and events around them, truly powerless and victimized. The first step to crawling out of this level and shifting consciousness is to actively develop an awareness of how this presents in important aspects of life: work, family, and social contacts. With an iPEC coach asking questions and validating the individual, a client is able to name these feelings and the possible reasons behind them to shift into a more energetic state.
Level 2, while still catabolic, moves a person to a higher level of consciousness. Now there is more energy to actually set a person to action. Level Two is the conflict level. People exhibiting a lot of Level 2 energy may appear angry, be full of defiance, and may treat life as though it is a struggle. Leaders operating at this level often get results through force or coercion. They might be seen as control freaks. This catabolic energy is exhausting to the leader and everyone around. Coworkers generally do not trust or admire leaders with this predominant style of leadership. Living in Level 2 energy is a challenge to change, but a coach is invaluable in guiding those experiencing a lot of Level 2 energy to name and reframe the events that cause the emotions surrounding them.
Shifting into Level 3 begins the anabolic energy process, but before we go there, in Part 2 of this 3-part series of posts – The Benefits of Catabolic Energy – I will show how, once familiar with higher levels of consciousness, we can shift back into catabolic energy briefly to increase opportunities for self-care and bonding, as well as finding the fire to get things done. You might say from a higher level, “It’s all good.” I invite you to meet me in Part 2!
Working the energy,
Coach Leona
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