December is the last month of the year, time to wrap things up for 2021. So, how will you spend your time this month to finish the year on a positive note? The holidays do bring much joy, and at the same time we all experience some stress due to outside influences. Gotta shop—the gifts, the gifts. And holiday meals, gotta cook and bake. But what about the diminishing supply chain this year? And clean the house, yikes! Oh, and the parties, too. So much to do, so little time. HELLO, STRESS!
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” ~ 2 Thessalonians 3:16
The stresses of the season are certainly a deterrent to the joy that we seek. They throw us off balance and that begins a downward spiral, away from that joy. But there is one easy way to re-balance, to get back the equilibrium: spend more quality time with God. Here’s how:
• Set your boundaries. Avoid over-extending yourself, with both time and money.
• It’s okay to say no. When that one more thing feels constricting, just politely say “not this time.” Then let go of the guilty feeling.
• Schedule some down time for yourself. God did. Remember the 7th day? That goes for you, too.
• Try using some essential oils for relaxation, meditation, and prayer. Seek the advice of someone knowledgeable in this and explore the benefits of them.
• Practice some yoga, tai chi, qi gong, deep breathing, etc. They can be relaxing, grounding, and help to re-balance.
• Talk with God, spend time with Him, visit with Him, like you would do with a friend. There is no need for the formal, ceremonious prayer. You can keep it casual, it all counts, you know. He just wants to be a part of our daily lives.
“Finally, brethren, rejoice, be made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” ~ 2 Corinthians 13:11
Remember, finding joy is very simple: just seek God. And if you need help with any of this, you can find some assistance by looking through this paper to find a qualified practitioner who cares. If you would like to explore the benefits of Reflexology to reduce stress and anxiety, contact Louise Richardson, Certified Reflexologist, at (813) 965-1697, or go to www.Reflexology4You.com. MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!