Freedom…To Do, To Be, and To Renew

The sights and sounds of fireworks, the dogs and burgers on the grill, the family and friend gatherings, and

those amazing red, white, and blue colors showing up everywhere. You know summer has officially arrived when we kick-off the Fourth of July festivities, thanking those fabulous forefathers of ours for giving British rule the boot, and declaring our independence in 1776!  But July 4^th isn’t just a day to celebrate our freedoms as a country. Think of it also as a national holiday to commemorate YOU. Give yourself a pat on the back for being who you are, and give yourself the freedom to let your own unique light shine through. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in negative chatter – either external or your own berating internal voice – and let the perceptions and opinions of others persuade you to doubt who you are, or hamper who you want to be.  Allow yourself the freedom to just be.

While you’re at it, give yourself permission to do nothing as well. These hot, languid lazy days of summer are so tempting to stay inside and hibernate. That’s not only acceptable, it’s encouraged! Did you know that resetting your brain is just as important as resetting your body. If you’re taking a summer vacation, take it to the fullest and expand and rest your mind. You can:

• Read a book
  
• Write a book
• Write in a journal
• Listen to music
• Put a puzzle together
• Sew a dress
• Paint a picture
• Mediate

No matter what you do, just be. Be with family, be with friends, be with nature, be by yourself, be mindful, and most of all, let yourself be free to enjoy the experience of rest, relaxation, and renewal. Your brain will thank you!

Happy Fourth of July!