Wednesday, November 30, 2016

A Time to Retreat

By April Eckwielen

The busyness of the holiday season is upon us. We may feel like we are being pulled every which way with our everyday schedules, plus all of the added chaos that comes with this time of year. We feel like we always have to be on the go or nothing will get done, when in reality what we need to do is take a break and retreat.

Just because this time of year is hectic does not mean that you have to give in to the madness. Yes, we want to get all the shopping done, food cooked, attend the special events and visit with everyone, but we have to keep in mind to take some time for ourselves.

Winter is a time for retreat, self reflection and restoring ourselves. It is not a selfish act if you decide to curl up at home and relax rather than go to the third holiday party this week. Taking this time to restore your body and mind is the most perfect gift you can give yourself this time of year.

Check out some of the following things that you can do to retreat and restore yourself during this busy time of year:
  • Start by doing less. This may be hard for some of you, but by allowing yourself to do less and slow down, you can create a wonderful new balance in your life. It is ok to say no to invitations or favors asked. You do not have to be at every event or do everything for others.
  • Take time for you. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing yoga class, sip a cup of tea while reading a book or go for a quiet walk, do it! Take this time to do things that you enjoy and also allow you time for your own reflections on the year. Incorporating “me time” is a great way to restore yourself.
  • Find comfort. Get into those comfy and soft clothes. Eat special dishes that you grew up with that gave you comfort. Curl up in your bed and take a much deserved nap. Enjoy this time where you can be relaxed and comfortable.
  • Check in. If you keep a journal, go back throughout the year and reflect on things you wrote about. Start a new entry of things you are looking forward to in the upcoming year. If journaling is not your thing, then sit and meditate on the past year and find peace in what you experienced and start envisioning the year to come.

Allowing yourself to take a step back and focus on you during this time of year is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself. This retreat and restoration is so important by not only letting you look back on things you have done, but to have you focus on the things yet to come. Let yourself just be. You will be amazed at what you get in return.

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