Bottle the Energy

Sun, sand and solitude. The sss's of summer. We should all be so fortunate to enjoy a summer holiday, a reprieve from the whirlwind schedule of daily life. It is a time for recovery, reflection and a chance for your body and mind to re-energize.

I can remember as a kid, leaving the house in the wee hours of the morning and not coming inside until the street lights came on. Summer days seem to pass too quickly. A typical summer day might be filled with activities like sailing or swimming, surfing or frisbee. These activities are so incredibly good for the soul, by connecting with mother earth. Playing outside gives us an appreciation of the world around us. What better way to complete a warm summer day, but to sit and watch the spectacular sunset.

Saying good-night to the sun is a great way to reflect on what gifts the day brought. Summer nights are clear and crisp. There is an unparalleled energy that a person gets from just relaxing under a starry night. Note: there has been no mention of computers, ipods, facebook, Ipads, Wii's, just a pure and simple connection with ourselves and the earth. There is much to be said for turning off all electronics when your body is in recovery mode.

We just celebrated our first full week back at school by hosting a welcome back party for the school staff. The energy and enthusiasm can only be described as contagious. Teachers were refreshed and excited to be starting another year of educating young minds. Support staff were relaxed and ready to assist in making this school year the best ever. One could see the maintenance staff breathing a big sigh of relief to have all the projects completed prior to the school opening. The big question is, how can this energy be sustained throughout the year, particularly when it is cold and grey outside? My small piece of advice for you, is to take the incredible energy that you have gained from summer time and bottle it up to use later in the year. When you are feeling exhausted, drained or tired from a busy week, open your proverbial bottle of energy and feed your soul. Remember the relaxed feeling you had during one of those summer evenings while you were sitting under the stars. Be thankful that you had the opportunity to do nothing but star gaze. If you time it right, you should have bottled enough energy to last until your next long weekend or extended holiday. Be in tune with the things in life that not only increase your serotonin levels, but also, allow you time for positive pause and feed your soul. Whether it is climbing a mountain, visiting with a dear friend or sitting in stillness beneath the trees. Bottle this energy.

Speak kindly, Care deeply, Love generously In Fitness, Andie