Take Care of Yourself!

So I made a quick comment at the end of my previous post to make sure to take care of yourself during this busy time of year. It felt like I hadn't really said what I wanted to say about that, so I'll try again:

Nobody knows how to take care of you better than you. I recently discovered that I am allergic to milk...recently being in the past year. What a difference that discovery had made in my life. I have more energy, I feel better, etc... Well, I accidentally had a bite of cheese on a sandwich the other day, and was surprised at how quickly and profoundly I was effected. It was a stupid thing, really - I just forgot to ask for my sandwich without cheese, and didn't want to spit it out and be rude. But it served as a confirmation to me that milk really doesn't agree with me, and how important it is that I am vigilant. Even if it is a little inconvenient for me and possibly for others, it is important that I take responsibility for speaking up, or avoiding foods (politely) that will make me sick.

My husband and I were recently with some friends playing a game - cornhole - and my husband's team mate was beginning to "choke" - couldn't make a shot. My hubby's advise? "RELAX!!!" His team mate's response? "Don't tell me to relax! That stresses me out more!!" Sometimes what would help someone else to deal with stress doesn't help us at all!

We all have something that we need to be vigilant about as far as taking care of ourselves. Whether its making sure we have the downtime we need, or the workout or yoga practice we need, or eating properly as much as possible in the face of all the temptations of the season. Even if it seems selfish or silly, or doesn't make sense to those around you...you are the only person who knows how to take care of yourself. Is your regular yoga practice or workout wearing you out rather than energizing you? Maybe it's a good time to try a softer practice - like a Yin or restorative practice. Is your regular softer practice leaving you needing something more vigorous to burn off that extra stress? What foods support you most and give you the energy you need to take on the extra holiday activities?

Take the time to tune in...without judgement...to what your needs are this holiday season.

Take Care...

Stacy


Oh yeah - one more schedule update - I'll be leading one section of the New Year's Day Yoga Mala at Yoga Garden this year - join us to burn away the stress and baggage of the last year, and start 2012 fresh!