"Take rest. A field that has rested gives a beautiful crop."
--Ovid
As Labor Day weekend approaches, people are planning family picnics and time together to celebrate the end of summer and the accomplishments of American workers. Hot dogs and potato chips are flying off the shelves at grocery stores. Watermelons are chilling in the coolers.
Work comes with responsibilities and rewards. It also
needs to come with rest and relaxation.
So many in the United States work without taking time off, in contrast to
Europeans, where most everyone receives paid time off from the beginning
of a new job.
A three day weekend is a start, but as one of my brothers says, it takes three weeks away from work to really
relax.
Relaxation is truly a gift. To put away the cell phones,
turn off the work, and just enjoy living in the moment takes practice. Reading a good book, cooking with family, walking in the woods or on the beach. These practices come with their own rewards such as lower stress,
improved digestion, lower blood pressure, and better moods.
Enjoy your Labor Day weekend. Take time for yourself. You have earned it
and you are worth it!
With love and kindness,
Nancy Heinrich, MPH
Founder and Wellness Architect
