“Thyme” Now

And just like that the holidays are upon us. It didn’t seem like a long time between Halloween and Thanksgiving and soon it will be Christmas time. People ask each other as it gets closer, “are you all ready for the holidays?” Normally I answer truthfully and usually that is a “getting there” or “almost,” but this year... it is a straight up “nope.”

What do those individuals actually want to know though? Are they talking about the physicality of the holiday season - hauling tree branches that have fallen with the wind gusts to welcome in the snowfall? Maybe they mean all of the shopping, the gifts and food preparations, the cleaning and the cheer that is in our music, mugs (hot chocolate) and caroling? Or maybe, just maybe, they are asking how you are preparing for the emotional times that will inevitably show up unannounced, at the time when you just can’t deal with “that” right now because you have your hand inserted into a 25 lb. carcass of a turkey and stuffing, butter and “thyme” on your hands. Did you see the irony there a bit?

As we all know, things get a little more hectic this time of year and I ask you, are you ready for the holidays - mentally, emotionally? Stress can come on full swing, so as the holidays come and go, remind yourself that you are one person, who isn’t (even though in your soul you are so fierce) a superhuman.

I will remind you that there are a couple of ways that can aid in processing all there is to holidays. Be mindful in your actions and thoughts. Other ways are to keep a journal close by and use it. Don’t just hold it close to look like you are actually using it. Crack that spine open, grab your quill (I mean your pen or pencil) and write down the first thought that comes to your mind. Don’t try to command where your thoughts go, just let it out. Let your writings morph and ask questions. Asking questions can help you feel lighter after acknowledging a hidden or stored away feeling. Also, you can keep it private. You don’t need to bring it to Aunt Edna’s attention or sister Judy’s attention either. Unless of course you feel safe and comfortable sharing it with those individuals. What I am trying to say is that what you discover in yourself, unless you need or feel the need to share, you don’t. After all this is your experience on this earth. No one else's and everyone has a different view.

Breathe. Remember your breath! Yes, we do it everyday without thought so why am I bringing it up to you as a way to destress and be more present? Because even though it is an autonomic response - breathing mindfully is just the ticket to calming your nervous system down.

Another very, VERY important thing to remember is to GET YOUR SLEEP! Seriously, look up what happens to a human body, brain and nervous system when you don’t get proper or adequate sleep.

Be mindful, breathe, journal and get good sleep to take care of yourself this holiday season and every day.

SEEKING

W

ONDER

BY

SAMANTHA Y OCIUS CREATIVE MEDIA