‘Tis the time of the year when, instead of being cheery, we may succumb to feeling weary — especially when we try to do too much, for too many, without taking time to rest and recharge.
So I hope a few verses will help you strategize and maximize your good will to others and do right unto yourself:
If holidays aren’t delightful,
It’s time to get insightful,
To all that stress just say no,
Let it go, let it go, let it go.
You’ve baked and done all the shopping,
But show no signs of stopping,
To all of that stress just say no,
Let it go, let it go, let it go.
As you ready to celebrate,
Do try to find some time to chill,
Don’t wait until it’s too late,
And you end up in bed feeling ill.
So promise to be good to you,
And think about reducing your “to-dos,”
To all that stress just say no,
Let it go, let it go, let it go.
So how do you make the most of this season?
Be kind — to others and to yourself. Hosting family and friends is part of what makes the holidays memorable, but if you are running ragged to fight the crowds at the mall, make that last batch of cookies, vacuum dog hair and spend hours wrapping gifts, you get lost in the process of doing for others. If you run yourself into the ground, chances are that when everyone else is opening gifts or enjoying a fabulous dinner, you will be down for the count on the couch or asleep in your bed.
This should be a time to unwind. Many people take off from work during the holidays, and students have a vacation from school. You don’t have to get caught up in the post-holiday fray, sitting in traffic all day, trying to exchange presents. Instead, take a few deep breaths or a lovely walk, or wile away an afternoon doing absolutely nothing. Maybe there is a movie you’ve wanted to see or a book you wish to read. How about undertaking a project such as knitting or photography, or gathering extra food, clothes and toys for those in need?
Holidays are also a time to remind ourselves of how blessed we are. The joy of hugging our loved ones, holding hands around a table, a delicious meal and the celebration of Hanukkah, Christmas or Kwanzaa. Take a moment to appreciate the coming together, celebrating traditions and enjoying the foods, songs and fun.
Remember, too, those who can’t partake due to financial circumstances, distance or for other reasons. The homeless, the sick and our U.S. armed forces also deserve to enjoy the season. Serving meals at a soup kitchen, participating in a toy drive, visiting an ill family member, sending a present or card or saying an appreciative words to those who serve are all great gifts. And giving is as rewarding — if not more rewarding — than getting back.
Holidays are also a time to get away from the grind. If you have a break from work or school, you needn’t cram your schedule with more things to do. Replace that holiday stress with a planned recess from things that make you nuts. Time out is not just for kids, but taking time out from your routine goes a long way to putting the smile back on your face and the happiness in your heart. Take a drive to see holiday sights and enjoy the beauty of a winter day, go for a hike, escape to yoga or read a book.
Sometimes we need to disconnect or reroute to reboot. Put on some lovely music, or dig out one of your favorite recipes and find therapy in kneading, stirring or creating something hearty, fragrant and delicious. Engaging the senses can ground you and surround you with delight — and help you let go of all that isn’t important around the holidays.
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A Wish to Be Amazed ? Not Fazed ? by the Holidays originally appeared on usnews.com
