TAKE TIME TO SLOW DOWN

"The time to relax is when you don't have time for it."

-- Sidney J. Harris

Blessings to you all,

T'is the season when holiday events make our already long to-do lists even longer. Yet we are also approaching the December solstice, and whether we are in the deep darkness of the north or high summer in the south, this time of year invites us to slow down.

We always need balance. Unfortunately, our action-based cultures make it tough to give ourselves permission to take it easy. So I want to share with you some wisdom from Daily OM's The Art of Inactivity:

"Activity is not, in itself, better than inactivity. In fact, times of rest and rejuvenation, idleness and dreaming help us connect to ourselves and to our divine source. ...

"We are often most comfortable with ourselves when we are clearly traveling toward a goal. ... But there are moments in this process when the urge comes to take a break, retreat, or just lay low. ...

"When you feel the urge to have down time, trust that this is a natural part of the process of achieving your goals. Know that what may appear to be a deviation from your path can actually prove to be a shortcut and give yourself permission to do exactly as you are moved to do. Curl up under the covers with a favorite book or catch an old movie on TV. Soak up some sun or daydream the day away. Better yet, do nothing at all. Allow yourself to simply be -- alive and at ease."

Take care of yourself. You're worth it!

~ Patrice

"Every stage of our lives offers fresh opportunities. Responding to divine guidance, try to discern the right time to undertake or relinquish responsibilities without undue pride or guilt. Tend to what love requires of you, which may not be great busyness."

-- Quaker Faith and Practice

"The more balanced our lives, the more serene we feel."

-- Ann Smith

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