Embracing 2024: Reflections and New Beginnings
Hello friend! Welcome to 2024.
How are you all feeling post-festivities? Whether you're back at work or still in holiday mode, I hope you're easing into the new year beautifully.
In our household, we're balancing the busyness of school preparations with some wonderful time with friends and family time. Despite a COVID hiccup before Christmas and a whirlwind trip to Sydney, I'm grateful for the vibrant start to the year.
Amidst these adventures, I've been delving into a fascinating book called "Widen the Window: Training Your Brain and Body to Thrive During Stress and Recover from Trauma" by Elizabeth Stanley, Ph.D. The book explores American cultural norms that hinder resilience, focusing on the tendency to downplay stress and neglect recovery. It examines how to manage stress and trauma, explaining the different responses of our survival and cognitive processes to traumatic situations. Emotional regulation and resilience - topics that have deeply influenced my approach to self-care and well-being.
Speaking of self-care, as we step into 2024, I'm embracing a gentler, more intuitive approach to life. My focus isn't just on traditional masculine-derived goals but on holistic well-being, creativity, home improvements, and nurturing my long-awaited vegetable garden. More than ever, I'm reminded of the importance of gratitude and being present in the moment.
As we all ponder our intentions for the year, I have a personal story to share. It's about a shift in priorities that's improved my health and my entire life philosophy. But I'll dive into that in tomorrow's email. Trust me, it's a story close to my heart and will resonate with many of you.
So, until tomorrow, I'd love to hear from you. What are your thoughts, book recommendations, or intentions for 2024?
Cheers,
Robyn :)