The Stress of a Second New Year

There is something about this time of year that is much like a second "new year" is many ways. The summer is coming to a close; the kids and many adults are heading back to school; people are going back to the gym, their yoga studios, dojos, churches, and so on to restart their practices in the Fall which may have fallen away during the summer. Also, the upcoming holidays are all just around the corner again with the reminder of Halloween already in the stores even before Labor Day weekend began this year. That alone is fodder for another blog entirely, but I digress.

The point is that the lazy, hazy days of summer are transitioning us into a new year of routines that are drawn to return to. That transition alone can be very stressful, even before any holiday planning might begin. This is a great opportunity for a little self-inquiry. Are you already feeling stressed out? How so? Are you already feeling the weight of the "obligations" that come with this time of year? In what way? Along with taking a good look at what it is you are doing personally or professionally, it is important to ask yourself "Why?" you are doing these things, before again committing to the long list of must-do activities that filled your days, nights and weekends just as in years passed. Think of it as a second new year's resolution. But instead of looking at what it is you want to do, consider asking yourself honestly: "What do I NOT want to do?" this year.

I invite you to explore the ways in which you can simplify your life, reduce your stress, and experience more peace and happiness from things that mean the most to you - being OK with saying no to some things, and letting go of the need to do things that no longer serve you. Take a meditation class, learn a new breathing or relaxation technique, block an hour in your time off to walk on the beach, in the woods, or anywhere that reconnects you to your true Self. Peace is found within.

“The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.” ~ Socrates

Wishing you a simple and joyful Fall.

Theresa Reynolds

Owner, Teacher, Therapist

The Yoga Within

www.TheYogaWithin.net