The holidays are over and people are still out at the stores getting the last of the great bargains. It always feels that once we pass December 26th there is a universal sigh of relief that’s almost audible. In case you’re one of those heading to the stores for the bargains, the scoop is that the big sales will be around till January 5th if not later.
I hope you had a wonderful holiday. Yes the presents are great, but I’m hoping you had time to connect with family and friends who care about you. In many cases, what do you get for the person who really doesn’t need anything? I think spending time together is a great gift. The truth is that spending quality of time together is better for you than the new tie or umbrella you may have received. A visit with loving family and friends sparks your immune system. It releases hormones in the body that soothe the body. Who knows you may even laugh and if you’ve ever read Norman Cousins, you’ll know that laughter is a great remedy for pain.
It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday frenzy. When facing a health challenge you may even put yourself in the frenzy to prove something to yourself, but it’s over and hopefully there is no price to pay for the over exertion from the marathon of holiday shopping. Take some time to simply regroup. Think about what these specific holidays have meant to you and write it down, put an album together, create an art piece or scrapbook. Having a comforting memory is a great way to reduce tension and bring the body back to center.
What did you do to get through the holidays? Let’s see if we can create a huge list that can be utilized for all future holiday seasons!
Pilgrim Pathway/Surviving Strong 
You forgot one thing, Jesus. It is His birth we celebrate. The celebration should really be about Him.