Time to Unwind
This time of year can be very hectic. All this peace and joy
and love is exhausting! This week take some time to just be. No need to fill
your time with complicated crafts or projects, those are always fun, but
sometimes you just need to unwind and let your brain put your thoughts in
order. Don't think that "me time" means "alone time". Last
week a group of friends and I took solace in hiking in the tranquil landscapes
of the Smokies. We spent time hiking along trails, reveling in the beauty of
the mountains, telling stories, and reminiscing. It was quite rejuvenating.
When I got back to the hustle and bustle of work, I felt ready to face the week
ahead of me in stride.
Don't forget children need to take time to de-stress too!
Children these days are showing higher levels of stress and anxiety. Studies
show that being around nature can help to alleviate these symptoms and even
raise test scores. I challenge you to encourage young people (and yourself) to
get outside at least 30 minutes or more a day. See if there attitude changes, you
might be surprised on how much more relaxed you feel.
The calendar is full of wacky days and celebrations. Believe it or not, Friday is "Look for an Evergreen Day". Evergreens are beautiful. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing but they are loaded with sensory devices that target exploration. Their prickly needles offer a unique touch and their crisp smell brings back memories of the past. If you look closely at the colors that encapsulate the evergreens, it could easily fill up an artist's easel. 
