Surviving Christmas...

So we're getting close to Christmas, the "Most Wonderful Time of the Year". So why are you so stressed out? This time of year you might have noticed is referred to as flu season as well. Do you really think it's because the flu bugs happen to be in hibernation and only come out for Chanukah? Or do you think it probably has more to do with the combined stresses of holiday diets, stressful family gatherings, and hectic shopping schedules? Now of course the additional stress of weather change has a lot to do with it, but let's remind ourselves of the fact that not everyone gets sick just because the weather changes. So how do we get through the holidays without crashing?

I was reminded of the big picture while in the parking lot at the mall. I saw a mom open the trunk before a screaming child and say "see, look, isn't this what you wanted"? I thought to myself, what has this turned into? People shooting others in the parking lot to get a Playstation 3, pitching tents in freezing parking lots, and people getting trampled over a sesame street doll, I think it's safe to say we're missing something. If you want your holiday stress to turn into peace, ponder this: "for God so loved the world, that he GAVE...". Not toys, sweaters, or video games, not material things. He gave LOVE. Here's some holiday gift ideas: random acts of kindness, fellowship, family. You don't need gifts (or credit cards) for those. This season we will teach our two year old what Christmas is about, LOVING and GIVING rather than wanting and having. Most people think finding PEACE is that moment when you're sitting around the living room with wrapping paper scattered and the kids with gaping jaws around everything they wanted (just before the harsh reality of holiday DEBT sets in). Some of the best Christmas' I ever had as a child was when I received the least, because I felt I had given more. Don't put life on hold and put yourself in a hole mentally, spiritually, and physically for the sake of pleasing. Use this time rather as a reminder of the greater things, the more important things. Be thankful for your health, your family, your provisions, and those around you that GAVE for you to be where you are today. It's not too late to make this season different. Merry CHRISTmas!


PARADIGM SHIFT...

Your body has a natural defense system against holiday stress. B and T cells (white blood cells) constantly "patrol" the body on guard and ready for action. The moment something foreign (bacteria, virus, etc) enters the body the alarm is sounded and the call to action is activated. These cells begin to develop antibodies, they rush to the sight, they close off the escape routes, they do everything possible to ensure victory.

It's interference with this "program" in the form of cut supply lines (nutrition), stagnation (lack of exercise), sabotage (drugs/and medications), and most importantly lack of command (brain to body connectivity), that stunt this entire process. The effect...you get ill. Spend some time pondering this concept and work on steps to rebuild your internal military to combat the holiday blues.