My husband and I rode on a wave of fun and relaxation during Memorial Day weekend. We marveled at how great it was. I think it’s one of the first three-day weekends we relaxed being at home and not on vacation. We relaxed and had fun all three days. It was fantastic! So, I really wanted to share with you what we noticed afterward during our “work week”.
Although there was some irritability and anxiety in air at my two-day contract job, I noticed that it didn’t affect me as much. It was easier to stay light and unburdened in an uncertain working situation. Although I stay pretty balanced, the uncertainty of what’s going on can and does affect me at times. I also noticed it was easier for me to support others to observe, without judgment, and really look at where some of the unrest was stemming from. It was even easier to explain how to shift the focus to the appreciative side of things.
As you know, with change there can also be drama. Everyday there seemed to be something to set everyone off. You have to admit there are times we all feed on the “drama” of a situation. So to lighten things up a bit, I suggested we consider the idea that we’re playing a kid’s game of “gossip”. Yes, it was much easier and more fun when we looked at what was happening in that light! So we looked at the “rumors” as part of the game. The rumors weren’t the truth (which is the Truth). When we can relax into what is going on with our own stories and opinions or with other people’s stories and opinions, we’re not coloring our world into one of negativity. Life can then take on a more light and playful flavor. Playing the game of gossip took the pressure and the sting out of what will happen in the future…because we truly don’t know what will happen for awhile yet.
Each day we played “gossip” and asked each other what the latest game had for us today. We actually laughed! I felt lighter and not as tired at the end of the day. My co-workers seemed lighter also.
The tension bubble popped. And, letting go of the tension is what’s important for our bodies and our minds. The truth is we don’t live in the past or the future . We know we only have the present moment. (I know at times our minds struggle with the thought of staying in the present, being in the flow and at the same time open to the the cues that guide us to move forward.)
On the other front, my husband was noticeably lighter and more optimistic than before the weekend. He seemed more committed to certain things that had been eluding him in the past. And I heard him whistle – a sure sign that all is well in his world.
Research tells us the importance of play and taking daily time-out on our stress levels, health, and happiness. But, I strongly suggest you do your own research. The carryover effect is one you’ll be sure to notice. Relax into relaxing, it’s much more productive than you may think. !
So put your feet up and relax into relaxing,
Bonnie
P.S .What do you notice when you relax or take a time-out? What do you do to relax? Or how do you take some quiet time for yourself? How are you different afterward? Post any of the answers to any of the questions and share with our readers.
My most favorite thing to do that instantly relaxes me yet at the same time excites me, is to go outside and take photographs. It’s my all alone quiet time and it doesn’t take too much time nor do I have to go anywhere. My second favorite relax time, especially this time of year, is to go hiking in the woods with my husband – which also allows time for more photography! Both make me calm and peaceful and grateful for my surroundings.