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It's easy to get a bit down this time of year, so here are some pick-me-ups you can try today Date published: 1/30/2009
BY KIM BAER
The Fredericksburg region received its first snowfall of the season this week, bringing flurries of school closings, puffy snow-gear wearing, snowball-making and sledding. The respite from "simply cold" was welcome, but now plain old regular winter has returned. And let's face it, late winter isn't an easy time of year to love. It's the moody counterpart to early winter's cheerful abundance. But why not find a way to make peace with it? After all, spring arrives seven weeks from today. In the meantime, late winter can be a good time to: SLOW DOWN Much of the natural world rests in winter, noted Pamela Fillmore, who spends her days helping others relax as a Reiki practitioner at Healing Arts Yoga Center in Fredericksburg. To be sure, Fillmore doesn't advocate seeking out the closest cave and piling on the leaves. Hibernation is not an option. But even the most in-demand of us can take a cue from nature and sneak in some relaxing moments. Here are some suggestions: Build in some quiet time every morning. Get up a few minutes earlier than usual, Fillmore said. Look out the window at nature. Light a candle and watch the flame or listen to soft music. Take a yoga class. Meditate. Many people shy away from meditating because they're not sure how to do it, said Megan Mason, who leads meditation groups in the Fredericksburg area. "Really, there's no right or wrong way to do it," Mason said. Find a quiet place in your home where you can be still. Start with three or four minutes a day, she suggested, and work your way up to about 15 to 30 minutes. If you're interested in meditating with Read a book that you wouldn't ordinarily read. Get outside. Even if it's only a brisk walk around the block, Fillmore said, you'll feel better. If it's dark when you get home from work, walk during your lunch break. Soak in a bathtub or hot tub. Dim the lights and use some candles. Focus on your breathing. When you feel stressed, take a moment to breathe deeply into your lungs, Fillmore said. You'll feel calmer. COZY UP YOUR HOME Many people spend more time at home in the winter.
1. Be respectful. No personal attacks.
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