My Cup of Chi: Nov 1, 2007

SURPRISE!

I saw this sign years ago. My mother and I were driving back from my grandparent's farm and I saw this out of the corner of my eye. I laughed so hard I about peed my pants, and I BEGGED my mom to stop the car. But it was getting late and she wanted to get home. I had no idea where we were, and assumed I'd never see that comical view again. So this image has been burned into my mind for the past many, many years... (and it always brings a grin to my face)

Then when I was in Indiana 2 months ago visiting my family, I took a drive out to the farm country with my dad and my boyfriend. I told them the tale of the ironically placed sign, and how much I regret passing up that David-Letterman-eque photo op so many moons ago... "If ONLY I knew where that sign was!" I sighed... But JUST as I was finishing my story, I look up to see... yes, you guessed it!... the infamous sign.

I squealed with delight. I can't remember the last time I felt so giddy. We looped back, parked the car, and I proceeded out into the middle of the street with my camera, my dark sense of humor feeling instantly gratified.

So what did I learn from all this? Here's my Top 10 List:

1. Never pass up an opportunity
2. If you believe an opportunity HAS passed, it may just magically reappear one day
3. Live every day of your life to it's fullest, so that there's no "SURPRISE" at the end
4. Having distracting (yet humorous) signage could prove hazardous to a driver's health
5. ALWAYS carry your camera
6. Perhaps death isn't the serious thing we've cracked it up to be
7. Lighten up, and take time out to enjoy the little laughs along the road of life
8. God has a pretty great sense of humor
9. Boyfriends who are willing to take roadtrips to farms with your dad are pretty great boyfriends
10. There are actually towns named "Surprise"...Who knew?!

So, what small things are YOU passing up on your life's journey? What light, giggly moments do you waltz past, only to hold onto regrets and longing? How can you stop to smell the roses (or photograph the signs) a bit more in your life? How can you lighten up, giggle more, and experience more pee-your-pants silly-fests?

Life is full of light and love and humor. I challenge you to prove me wrong...

Ready...

Set...

SURPRISE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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SPRING INTO FALL

Well, it's that cuddly time of year once again - time to pull out the thick blankets, flannel pajamas, hot chocolate and winter coats!

Even though we live in modern times with modern conveniences, it's easy to unplug from nature and the change of seasons. We live in air conditioned or heated rooms, travel in weather-proofed cars and remain sheltered for much of our working hours. To help reduce stress as well as stay in the natural rhythm of our bodies and our biology, it can be a very powerful to go with the flow, so to speak. Honoring our body's fall and winter cravings for heavier foods, slower pace and warmer environments can work wonders for most overworked Americans.

Also consider this a time to honor your home's natural rhythm. Creating rituals around your home during the change of season can be cathartic and healing. Try on the following this month as you dress your home for the winter months:

• Throw away (or give away) all things that are no longer serving you or moving you forward
• Change the drapes, blankets, pillows and throws to warmer, heavier or softer materials
• Switch out decorations throughout the house with ones dedicated solely for the colder months
• Switch out your wardrobe, coats and shoes to make room for bulkier winter wear
• Sort through cabinets, drawers, and closets and let go of anything that went unused this past year
• Make space in all areas of your life in order to make room for new and wonderful things to come in 2008!

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FEATURED FRIENDS: Pamela Rich

Holistic Nutrition – Nourishing the Whole You!
with Pamela Rich, HHC

Did you know that it’s not just what you eat, but
how you eat that affects whether food and its nutrients
are being digested properly?!

That’s right – many things go into how the food we
eat affects our overall Chi. If we eat in a stressed
state – on the run, in the car, standing at the counter–
our sympathetic nervous system shuts down our
digestion and metabolism. This can really “weigh”
(no pun intended!) on our Chi.

So what do we do to make sure our food is fueling
our good energy and keeping us healthy and happy –
SLOW DOWN! Take a few deep breaths before eating.
This will take everything down a notch allowing your
digestion to get turned back on.

Guiding you to a healthier life!
Pamela Rich
Holistic Health Counselor
Board Certified, AADP
516.624.2332 www.bestyoucanbenow.com