My dear friend Jenny publishes a monthly newsletter. I thought it was so highly appropriate for everyone that I asked for her permission to reprint it here. Jenny is always so full of practical advice and love. To find out more about her and her well-being services click on her name below. By the way, if you are looking for a wellness coach and aren't in the London area not to fret, she does offer phone consultations. I am sure you'll adore her and value her input.
T'is the Season
by Jenny Calcoen-Birnberg of Gemini Wellness Coaching
Are you ready for a little mini break or an exotic holiday ? You are not alone. Most people, when asked, would prefer to skip the festive season altogether in favour of a holiday far away. How can we get some stress out of our lives, rather than increase it ?
Just as other mammals are feeling the call to slow down and 'go inside' at this time of the year, nature is calling us and we are happily ignoring it.
Our ancestors used to live their lives completely according to the seasons, the cycles of the sun and moon and the natural rhythms of day and night. They did not have the plethora of office parties, Christmas (over)indulgence and family drama to deal with.
This is the 'stress season' for many people. There are all the parties to attend and people to see before the end of the year, in addition to all the work we need to complete before 31 December. Although we generally feel that we need more sleep and more time to rest, we act by doing the exact opposite.
We then stress about getting the gift that is just right for everyone, even if it takes braving the cold weather and the crowds in the shops and malls during the most frenetic season of the year. When we get to Christmas, if we celebrate it, or the end of the year, many of us feel completely exhausted, disappointed about not fitting into that little black dress, feeling unhealthy and overweight and remedy this by ... drinking too much and overeating.
Why not try this year to make sure to take regular walks or engage in activities outside, to get as much fresh air and enjoy what little sunshine there is ? I am happy to remind you that 21 December is the year's shortest day in the Northern hemisphere, which means that we will be getting a few more minutes of day light every day from 22 December.
How about spending less time worrying about getting the perfect gift and instead thinking of ways to spend more time with your loved ones : perhaps it is visiting a certain exhibit at a museum with your mother or going to a day spa with your best friend. If you do want to give something; why not spend some time making gifts yourself this year ; from lovely home-made bath salt (take a glass jar and fill it with coarse sea salt, dried flowers and essential oils) to home-made chocolates presented in an antique tea cup or better yet; make donations to charities on behalf of your loved ones ? This is guaranteed to take the stress out of shopping as well as your wallet and will get your creative juices flowing at the same time.
What if you tried to enjoy yourself this season?
I wish you a happy and healthy 2009.
Be well,
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