The Final Countdown

The big day is almost here which is exciting for some of you and very stressful and emotional for others. How can you experience an easefulness and enjoy the holidays this year? Does your body have to be tense when you visit at the big family gatherings? Do you have to feel worried about the money you are spending? Does the to-do list have to overwhelm you? As I have talked about in my past few articles there is another way.

Be realistic about what your body can tolerate, know your bandwidth. You may have to delegate some tasks this year if they are necessary for your celebrations. You can simplify or scale back on traditions if you do not have the capacity to do it all. You may also have to say “no” to some commitments. Yes, you may need to say no! You can lessen your stress and avoid backing out last minute by setting realistic expectations for yourself and others.

Here is a short list of things to try when you need a break or a pause in your busy day.

1. Take a break. Pause, close your eyes and take a few breaths.

2. Rest. Have a short nap if time allows. If not, just close your eyes for a few minutes.

3. Read. Grab a good book and read for a few minutes. Thinking about something else will help your brain to rest.

4. Look out the window and watch the snow fall (if you live somewhere with snow!). Or just look out the window at the trees and sky.

5. Go for a short walk. Get some fresh air and simply walk, without headphones.

6. Meditate. If you are unsure how, there are many youtube videos and recordings on many music apps.

7. Stay in the moment and be mindful of what you are doing in the present rather than letting your brain rush ahead to the next task.

May you enjoy the holidays and have some ease and pause in whatever way you celebrate!

All the best for 2024!

About Bobbi:

It's been quite a journey! Graduating from Simon Fraser University in 1994, I've dedicated my career to helping clients with their rehabilitation, particularly those recovering from motor vehicle accidents.

At Christmas time in 2018, my family experienced a roll-over accident, down a mountain in our brand new minivan. My entire family was in the vehicle, and thankfully I was the only one who was injured. The resulting concussion caused memory fog, insomnia, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, and headaches.

Navigating the Western medical approach didn't provide the relief I sought. Despite being advised to rest, I persisted in working and caring for my family. After almost a year of frustration, a yoga therapist/kinesiologist introduced me to a different path. Through slow movements, body reconnection, and doing less, I surprisingly began to improve. This contrasted with what I'd been taught in Western medicine.

Curiosity led me to dive into yoga therapy training, and the changes were astounding. Symptoms lessened, energy increased, anxiety vanished. Inspired by my own transformation, I became a yoga therapist with a mission to help those who struggle and might be labeled with "chronic pain." I'm eager to guide others toward the change they deserve.