A JOYFUL CELEBRATION

     How do we approach the holidays this year coming from the perspective we've been focusing on in our previous Monthly Inspirations, allowing our soul to direct our subconscious from its spiritual point of view in order to make life more fulfilling? This can be an exciting endeavor to undertake once we realize the incredible benefits that come as a result of our effort. For the holidays can become a time of joyful celebration instead of the stressful task we may have experienced in the past. The choice is ours.
     The secret to achieving this new outlook on life lies in allowing the soul, our spiritual essence, to first, make a conscious decision to welcome this great experience, then make a plan on how to accomplish it, and finally to direct our subconscious, our inner, emotional child on how to carry out our plan, following a step by step approach.
     To get started, sit back and reflect on past holidays. What did you like about these events? Get specific. Write it down for yourself, for these are the parts of the celebration we want to keep, perhaps even build on. Then reflect on the things you didn't like, things that didn't work or created more stress than benefits. This is what we want to eliminate, downsize or change. Go through each situation and review it carefully. Remember our holiday can be what we'd like it to be, not what everyone else tells us it should be. And let go of simply going along with an outdated idea just because, "We've always done it that way." We may have always done it that way in the past, but does it fit with the way you live your life now? Begin a new tradition, one that fits into your current way of thinking.
     Be aware of how you schedule your time for we always tend to be much busier during the holidays. Don't overbook. Use a calendar and stick to that schedule. Remember, as we reviewed in October's Monthly Inspirations, it's okay to say no; to invitations, requests for help, etc. But schedule in the things you really enjoy and follow through on them. Keep in mind we want to set a healthy, well-balanced pace.
     And finally, make time to reflect on all the blessings that already exist in your life. Are you able to see them? Thanksgiving presents us with a great opportunity to acknowledge these blessings. Allow your soul to focus on all the beauty that surrounds you. Take time to relive each event, each person, every circumstance that has enhanced your life in the past. Seek to encourage more of these same experiences in the future. For by directing our subconscious to focus on the positive, we welcome continued blessing to ourselves.
     We've only scratched the surface of this important topic, but I encourage you to take the time to create a new plan this year. By making your holiday season what you truly envision, you move one step further on your goal of a healthy, well-balanced life. And remember our Stress Care Clinic can help you work out the details of your plan. Please check our schedule for upcoming programs.

Wishing you a joyful holiday celebration!

SANDY DALIEGE