< PreviousCELEBRATEANDFLOURISHby Gillian StevensBurnout, compassion fatigue, or any of the stress-related conditions that are appearing in epidemic proportions, particularly at this time of year, are the effects of an imbalance and the body’s inability to cope. Over the last 15 years in my role as a guidance counselor, I had become disheartened and frustrated working in an education system that seemed to be broken. I wanted desperately to make a difference but felt stuck. I was burned out, overweight, tired, and unhappy. When my colleagues asked the inevitable questions about what I’m going to do in my retirement, I spontaneously and brazenly stated that I’m going to write and publish a book.In the beginning, I convinced myself that it was enough that I had stated my dream out loud. But, as summer drew to a close, I suffered some angst knowing soon I’m going to have to walk my talk. It was the time a friend invited me to attend a ‘Get Motivated’ conference.At that conference, I was approached by a book publisher that I knew would be instrumental in helping me fulfill my dream of being a published author. I realized I could make a difference by writing a book that supported those who give up their time and energy to help others while often sacrificing their own well-being, needs, and desires. During the year of my book writing, I was excited and scared everyday. However, when I held the finished book in my hands, all the time, energy, struggle, and anxiety was definitely worth it. I was flourishing and living the life I had been thinking and writing about.I invite you to consider applying the Flourishing Process to your life:FocusSlow down and become aware of what you want and need. Set your intention to focus on yourself and place your attention on what needs to shift. LoveLove yourself enough to make the time for yourself and what you want, need, and dream about. Admit what you love about yourself and what you love to do. Own itEveryone has a story, and we can get fixated on an issue that causes us to repeat sabotaging behaviors. Re-frame your story and focus positively on the learning gained from each experience. Celebrate all the learning and focus on being a victor, not a victim.You could use an ornament on your desk as your anchor so that each time you look at it, you think of 5 things to be grateful for. An anchor is lovely way to bring the practice of gratitude into your day naturally so that, over time, you do it automatically.UnityWe’re not alone in the busyness of our lives, although, the speed of life often makes us feel like we are rushing and isolating ourselves from others. Seek support from your tribe or mentor. ResponsibilityGo first and others will follow; not because you ask them to, but, because they are inspired by your confidence and actions. Take charge of your life and commit to your goals. Step into the responsibility of being a leader among your friends, colleagues, and family and lead by example. InspirationWe all have a unique personal purpose by virtue of the fact that we are here, at this time. By cultivating your relationship with your spirit and inner wisdom, you open the lines of communication to discover your purpose. Synergy When our body, mind, and spirit are in alignment or in synergy, we are healthier. We are also stronger together when we take care of our well-being, accept the help from others and encourage others to do the same.HarmonyAs we move authentically in our lives, doing what we believe we’re here to do, make us contented, if not happy. We mean what we say, and act consistently with what we believe in and that contributes to creating harmony within our relationships in our homes, workplace, and communities. The universe works in mysterious ways. Perfect circumstances arose to guide me toward achieving my goal. My friend’s invitation became the catalyst that sparked the commitment that moved me from thought to possibility. I had been in the right place at the right time all along, and it had all worked out perfectly when I was ready. I urge you to seize each moment knowing you will be supported in creating the life you deserve. Here’s to living a flourishing life!CELEBRATEYOURHEALTHby Kim SpeedAre you like me this holiday season - feeling as if you’re dealing with a never-ending ‘To-Do’ list, mad dashes to meetings, busy mornings, crazy afternoons, and sometimes even crazier evenings; the word jam-packed gets a new meaning as there is bumper-to-bumper traffic of tasks — in your head. This is also when exercise gets pushed to the edge (and sometimes falls away totally) and sodium-laden convenience snacks have an irresistible charm. I begin to think that if ‘Remember to Breathe’ is also an item on my ‘To-Do’ list, then where does the six-letter word called HEALTH fit in?Can there be a magical elixir that one could just drink and have one’s health taken care of?While there isn’t any one magical elixir, there are some really simple steps that have worked for me - they’re like magic because they bring me back on track with my health.Good Ol’ Water...Dietitians swear by this. At times, you ‘think’ you are hungry but what the body is really asking for is water. Boring, some might think. When you are stressed, it is easier to reach out to the sugary snack in your purse or drawer and get that instant gratification. But just a moment! One deep breath in. Do you remember what follows that instant gratification? A SLUMP. A big energy slump! Like a truck just ran over you. Reach out for that glass of water instead – better still invest in a water bottle – so it stands right there as a constant reminder to ‘drink me’.Just That Bit of PlanningHow about planning on paper? Or electronically, if that suits you better. This is a different type of ‘To Do’ list. All it needs is 30 minutes. It starts with a Master List of ALL the things you need to do, then scheduling them to the weekdays. What’s new you say? You did that already. The difference is that Health becomes part of this list. Research has time and again showed us the benefit of writing down tasks. Your exercise, eating, and fun will also get scheduled on this list. Build in some mandatory time for thinking through and then preparing healthy snacks in advance like foods that taste great and easy on your taste buds. How will you keep yourself accountable? Building in healthy rewards and getting a buddy to do it with you are good ideas to consider. my way to an early grave. Get Em Movin’Those tired and aching muscles... But where is the time you say? Circle back to the list here – it is tied into your schedule. And that planning has helped you identify the activities you like – they can range from the regular pumping iron in the gym to slower paced yoga classes. Or dance. Or time out with the kids. Or the dog you need to walk. I have tried all of these at various points in my life. Being creative and asking yourself, “What is the most fun way for me to exercise?” is a great way to come up with creative ways to schedule that muscle movement. Each Monday evening, I incorporate a core strength class with a meditation focusing on gratitude and thanks for our personal health and wellbeing. Next >