With my 2023 word for intention decided it is time to start focusing on general “healing” as I await my back surgery after which some real healing will commence. But that is just physical healing and there are many forms of healing out there. I guess I could start with healing from original sin but I will stay in my lane and keep it personal. The word “ heal” is defined as to become sound/healthy or to correct/put right and I will take the liberty of further defining it as balancing or compensating for too much or too little of all manner of things in my life, past and present. This broadened definition allows for healing on many fronts some of which are already routine but others are current or new actions or challenges.
I would say engaging in things that bring “peace of mind” is one of the most important areas of focus or healing in my retirement life and the primary things I do to reach and stay in this state of mind are the basics including sleep, diet and exercise along with time for mental and/or spiritual contemplation and reflection. Letting my days evolve organically is a close second to maintain peace of mind which I would also define as contentment at this life stage; something sorely lacking in earlier decades due to overextension and lack of life balance.
I must say spending time with my mother is an epic source of healing for me in so many ways it’s hard to know where to start. Reconciling the past and atonement for early transgressions in my mother-daughter relationship could take a lifetime but, suffice it to say, regret, remorse and repair have been key. So our visits now, in her twilight years, are filled with words and deeds steeped in kindness and generosity which I see as a blessing. I truly believe things have come full circle for me in fostering sound family relationships which is something many never achieve.
Let me share some current healing rituals that are therapeutic in ways both big and small:
-Sticking my head outside at night and breathing in the fresh cold winter air as the snowbanks continue to pile up in our winter wonderland.
-Setting up the coffeepot every night for my early rising mother and bringing her hot tea and treats in the afternoon and evening.
-Joining mom for card games, puzzling, game shows and silly conversations.
-Laundry and bathing are now carried out for the two of us along with supply errands.
-Cooking for just the two of us as Paul gallivants around southern California visiting family & friends.
-Reading all night in Paul’s recliner in front of the fire place surrounded by sparkling mantle lights.
-An evening spritz of sample perfumes I purchased over the holidays.
-Consistently using both an air purifier and a humidifier to combat the winter dryness.
-Heat and herbal therapy using oils and lotions all specifically selected to improve all manner of ailments and soothe multiple senses.
-Sound sleep on my adjustable bed in my cozy flannel sheets surrounded by supportive pillows; in spite of that dang c-pap machine.
Anyway, in closing, I have lots of “healing rituals” to be grateful for this winter; how about you?