Renew and Recharge

I recently spent four days at The Oaks at Ojai health spa. What a wonderful experience. I can't recall ever taking time like that just for me--alone--to rest and renew. This was the perfect place to do so. The food is 100% natural: no sugar, no preservatives and no salt. The program included many exercise classes along with yoga for relaxation. Nestled in the mountains inland from Ventura, the setting was gorgeous.

I met some amazing ladies during my stay. Each one had a unique story of what brought them there: corporate job stress, retirement, change of careers, illness or just plain taking a break from motherhood/wifehood! Each of them gives so much to this world and the people in it. I was proud of every one of them for having the courage to get off the treadmill, if only for a little while.

I had some guilt as I drove up to Ojai...spending money just on me. But, it quickly disappeared as I settled in amongst the others who, because they want to be their best, knew there is a time and season for rest. To all the lovely ladies I met, thank you for being a great example! To everyone else, be sure to make the time to renew and recharge your batteries. Everyone benefits when we are hole.

Today is a new day!

Happy Spring! With Easter approaching (rather quickly, I might add...it's so early this year!), I find myself thinking of how different I am today than in years past. And, I pray that I can say the same in another 10 years! Deo Valente.

This is the time of year to be thankful for that opportunity to be a new creation...one of love, compassion and life-giving. May you be a positive force in this world and have a blessed Easter!

Manage Your Stress

I haven't written a blog entry for awhile. Stress consumed me with word of a dear friend's illness taking a turn for the worst. Upon returning home, another friend's husband died, losing the battle of cancer. Yet another friend's husband is in critical care. My busy schedule that week including catching up from being gone, speaking, leading groups, teaching fitness classes and a myriad of other things. This same week, I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis...probably as result of my long-term fight of Lyme Disease. It is not wonder that I ended up getting the crud this past weekend. Ugh.

Stress is awful. If we don't manage it, it WILL do something to us. I now have a very real gauge of my stress levels. When I'm not coping well, I hurt something fierce...can barely move. I'm being forced to once again evaluate how I handle things. Physical activity may not be my solution for stress management when my pain levels are high. I am on yet another journey.

I don't know your stress or what helps you deal with it, but whatever it is...do it!