The underlying theme of this column has been the realization that the future can be actualized through a spiritual revolution where each of us recognizes the connection we all have on a level beyond the physical. As we transform our feelings, thoughts and actions to be consistent with that premise, we strengthen the possibility of creating an enduring peace within ourselves and, in the larger picture, the world.
The growing trend of “going green” and rethinking how we use our overburdened environment can be seen as another spiraling spiritual bond. As inhabitants of a fragile eco-system, it’s vital we see ourselves as not only participating in peace but also as healers of our planet.
Earth Hour was recently successfully celebrated and it’s about more than one night. It’s about inspiring us everyday to make changes that will help achieve the ultimate goal of the going green movement and reduce emissions by 5%. Honoring earth can grow to be a symbolic ritual, as well.
We can utilize a weekly celebration that’s earth and wellness focused by remembering the best things in life are free. Here’s a few suggestions to enrich a weekly Earth Hour:
Prayer—Readers of this column have heard directly from the world’s leading authority on the power of prayer, Larry Dossey, MD, that 50% to 100% of the time prayer has beneficial, measurable effects on a recovery. How about prayer for the planet, peace, relationships, our friends?
Candlelight—“Don’t curse the darkness, light a candle.” Think of the savings on electricity if one incorporated an hour of candlelight per week over the span of a year. Set a mood for all kinds of warm and wonderful moments.
Touch base with an old friend—Telephone someone with whom you’ve lost touch and have a chat about old times, the future or just have a heart-to-heart or a soul-to-soul talk.
Give or get a massage—We are a touched-deprived nation and human contact is, in many ways, a thing of the past. Live alone? Pet your dog or cat and your blood pressure will decrease, you’ll be more relaxed and your pet will love you for it. No pet? The animal shelters are always full of fur-covered love.
Have sex—Boost your immune system, release those wonderful endorphins, get a cardiovascular workout, reduce your stress level, reduce depression and anxiety, and increase the quality of sleep.
Go for a walk—Re-acquaint yourself with your environment whether that means the landscape or your neighbors. Look at the sky and count the stars—Google the visible constellations of the Northern Hemisphere and count how many you can find.
Get an extra hour of rest—America is a sleep-deprived nation. An extra hour of sleep will improve your coping skills, improve your relationships and it aids concentration.
Write a letter by hand—Reach out and create a lasting memory for someone you love with a keepsake for a lifetime.
Create a spa hour—Light your bathroom with candles, pour yourself a glass of wine, use some aromatherapy in bath salts or bubbles, make yourself a dish of cheese and crackers or, better yet, fresh fruit, and don’t forget the body lotion. Ask a special someone to join you.
Use other senses besides sight—Make an effort to train yourself to listen, smell or taste silence, rain, nature or your own inner voice, etc.
Listen to music—“Music is what feelings sound like.”
Visualize—Let’s start with world peace, and always remember: “Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.”
Irene A. Masiello is a certified holistic counselor, adult educator and stress management consultant. She’s a member of the Elder Justice Coalition and the author of a recently released book, Paradise Costs—A Victim’s Daughter Fights Back Against Elder Abuse, a personal narrative and docudrama about the nuances of elder abuse, exploitation and neglect. It encourages readers to get involved by participating in what is a proactive rally in book form that includes self-contained, tear-out letters to both Houses of Congress urging passage of the Elder Justice Act. Visit www.ParadiseCosts.com or write her at ireneamasiello@cs.com.
