Winter has arrived. This is a time for me to just “be” and stay inside to complete things I haven’t completed in months. I make time to have a cup of hot chocolate and relax. This is the season to rest, reflect on the year gone by, and recharge your batteries so you are ready when spring moves you into action once again. Give yourself the “gift” of rest and reflection.
Rest. How many of us really know what that feels like? Many of us believe that rest and sleep is the same thing. They are not.
Rest is peace-full and aware. The mind quiets when we rest, yet does not "check out". Rest can happen, even in the midst of such activities as eating and sleeping going to work, attending school and doing homework, household chores, and other day-to-day responsibilities.
Here are a few suggestions that can create a more rest-full life:
1. Change your state of mind Choose peace. Give yourself permission not to think so much. We are a society that finds its safety in "knowing the answer" to whatever occurs. For just a few weeks, allow yourself not to "know." Go ahead - try it! Say "I don't know." Doesn't that feel good? Nothing more for anyone to ask you after that!
2. Reduce the mental stimulation. Instead of books that make you work, read what you enjoy. Take in less electronic media and replace it with an easy walk outside each day. If its too cold, bake something that makes your whole house smell yummy, or take the time to have a personal cozy-up with your favorite kitty!
3. Change your environment. Play soft music at your desk. Make time for tea with quiet, gentle friends. Snuggle into your most comfortable clothing and dim the lights a bit. Candles, incense or aromatherapy are perfect for creating a nurturing space in which to relax.
4. Let something go. Take the time to write down everything on your "to do" list. Now, using this as an opportunity to really love yourself, move three things on the list that can wait until Spring. Ask yourself if anyone will be forced to "leave the planet" if you slow down the production pace just a little bit. Cleaning the closet can wait. Fixing the car may be another story. Meet your deadlines if you must - and let yourself off the hook if the deadlines are self-imposed.
5. Make time for “just being”. If you look out the window, you'll see that nature is resting. The grass has stopped growing. The leaves have fallen and the barren branches inform us that it is time for quiet. To try and grow something now is to push energy against the very will of nature. Now is not the time of growth, it is the time to be still.
6. Simplify your Holidays Invite fewer people. Go to one less party. Write meaningful cards for those who touch your heart deeply, and drop acquaintances off your "obligation" list. The "Holy-Day" season is a time for sharing our sacred stories and beliefs. Give the gift they really want - Time with you!
To be completely honest, I am not always very good at sitting down and doing nothing. I am, however, committed to taking the simple steps above. To rest, we can set the intention to living differently. We must also be forgiving in our self- judgement, and learn self-care.
As we travel into this season of rest, I am thankful for your companionship on the journey!
Wishing you peace, prosperity, good health and happiness always, and in all ways!
Lynne
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