In every breath, newness.
With every breath, love.

Do not forget to breathe today.

It is more than just the essence of life.
Our breath is our connection home.

photo credit: nasikabatrachus

Through the holidays, it’s easy to abandon your normal routine and enjoy more eating, drinking and socializing. For a while, the body can adapt. In fact, it’s fun to celebrate the holidays, staying up later and enjoying the company of family and friends.

But do you notice that after a few days of this your body is craving a healthier routine? You feel sluggish, uncomfortable, even perhaps irritable? The thought of another big meal weighs you down?

This week’s invitation is to honour your body.

Give it what it needs to regain balance. Go to bed earlier. Add a few more veggies to your diet. Drink more water. Get outside into the fresh air for a walk. Ask your body what it needs most and then be willing to honour what it tells you. Your body will thank you.

With sparkling energy,
Paula

This week’s invitation births out of a interaction I had this morning.

With the hussle and bussle of Christmas upon us, it seems many people are in a rush with last minute arrangements.  As I was making my way into the lab for blood work this morning, I held the door open for a elderly man. He moved slowly on the icy path, careful not to fall. Noticing me standing in the cold, he immediately apologized for his slow shuffle, to which I replied, ”Take your time. I’m in no rush.” 

(I actually was, but something made me stop for him.)

We both entered the lab and went on our merry way. As I was leaving, he caught my attention, gave my arm a little squeeze and said, “See if I’d have been in a rush, I’d have missed that beautiful smile of yours.”

How sweet! This man just made my day and reminded me of the power of a helping hand lent with a smile.

What are you missing as you rush around? Will you slow down long enough to find out?

This week’s invitation is to allow more time in your schedule.

Give yourself extra time to drive in wintery conditions. Show up at appointments 10 minutes early. Allow more time in your day so you’re available for those little miracles. And pay attention to what shows up. You just might find it makes your day.