Rediscover Calm

Written by Barb Greenberg, excerpt from Rediscovering the Holidays.

When divorce takes up so much time and energy, the demands of a holiday season can be overwhelming. Rushing from one thing to the next can become a competition.”Oh, you think you’re busy?! Well let me tell you about my day!” It can also become a socially acceptable addiction, because by staying busy you can avoid emotional pain, at least for a short time. We believe if we don’t keep moving, things will fall apart, but things are more likely to fall apart if we don’t stop. Plus, what is wrong with a little falling apart. “Holding it together” is often overrated. And what falls apart eventually comes back together in a healthier, more brilliant form.

Prioritize and reflect on what you truly value. Hopefully your health is on the top of the list. You don’t have to go to open houses or bake cookies unless, of course, that brings you joy. Your laundry doesn’t have to be folded just right, or depending on your tolerance level, even be folded at all. You do not have to complete every errand on your list immediately. I remember getting into my car, driving four blocks, turning around and going back home. It was just too much. I had to stop.

When you stop, your life can catch up with you. In the long run you are able to get more done and stay healthier_at the same time. Your stress level drops. You make better decisions, because you can process information more effectively. And you can hear your intuition more clearly when it whispers to you. Your spirit will rejoice that you have honored, respected and cherished yourself. Print out the Rediscover Calm Questions for Reflection.