 Taking
Care of Ourselves
The Winter
Solstice marks the point when the sun is furthest south. For us in the
Northern Hemisphere it marks the longest night of the year. Many cultures
and traditions mark this important event in the year. As you're celebrating
your personal traditions I invite you to look at how this season impacts
your body.
During the warmer months many of us spend
time outdoors exercising. The options for exercise aren't as plentiful in
the winter. Also many of us eat more than we should. (I'm writing this after
Thanksgiving dinner!) Then come January we make New Year's resolutions that,
for many of us, involve doing something to improve our bodies.
Rather than waiting until January, I invite
you to begin the process of taking care of your body now. Take a look at your
diet. Are you eating enough good food? Are you eating a well-rounded diet? How much of your diet is fresh fruit
and vegetables? How much of your diet is sweets, high-fat or junk food? Have
you considered organic food as a way to reduce the pesticides, hormones and
drugs you ingest from food?
Take a look at your exercise routine. There
are many benefits to exercise - one of the best benefits is a reduction of
stress. Start an exercise program now - during this season. Exercise doesn't
require an expensive gym membership. There are many other options. Take a
walk during lunchtime, go for a run around your neighborhood, join a yoga or
tai-chi class or go for a hike. The possibilities are limitless and the
benefits are great!
All the activities going on during the holidays can also add stress.
Others will create demands on our time. Many times we feel we must do
everything to keep those around us happy. You don't have to do
everything. Make priorities. You don't have to do everything - it's OK to say no to some
of these demands. Most important, be sure to reserve some down
time for yourself.
To allow
oneself to be carried away by a multitude of conflicting concerns, to
surrender to too many demands, to commit to too many projects, to want
to help everyone in everything is itself to succumb to the violence of
our times. Thomas Merton
Touch is also an important way to
reduce stress. Trade neck and shoulder rubs with your friends. You may want
to consider offering your friends a massage from you as a gift. (There are
some great massage books I can recommend to help you out!) Get lots of hugs.
Take some good, deep breaths. Finally, don't forget to set aside
time for yourself and schedule a massage! | 
