It’s Holy week once again and almost everyone in the country is getting a four-day non-working holiday. Many have already planned for this long vacation — to go home to their provinces, “staycation” with family and friends, hit the beach or some might choose to just chill at home. If you happen to be a home buddy this holy week, this is a perfect opportunity to recharge yourself in a more meaningful way without the hassles of traveling and stressing your pocket. Here are some activities you can do to make the most out of this week:
- Create a ‘life map’
Life maps are creative visualizations of your past, present and future. With your life maps, it is easier to reflect on the lessons of the past and the dreams you have in the future. All you need are cardboard and old photos or pictures from magazines that may represent a certain event in your life.
As this is the perfect time to do it, you can even ask your family members to join you to engage and spend quality time together this holy week. This exercise is an excellent way to look back on wonderful memories, revisit the tough ones that made the family stronger and make great plans for the future.
2. Disengage from Social Media
I know it’s hard not to post on Facebook or any social media platforms you may have on how your long weekend is doing, especially if it is already a habit. But why not make it different this time? Take this time to be quiet and listen to what God is saying. Read the Bible or any spiritual book of your choice, contemplate on it and write down your thoughts. Pray. Reconnect your soul instead with nature, the divine, and the people you are spending the long weekend with.
- Take the Time to Meditate
With the hectic pace and demands of modern life, many people feel stressed and over-worked. There are so many distractions. It often feels like there is just not enough time in the day to get everything done. We are often so busy we feel there is no time to stop and meditate. But meditation actually gives you more time by making your mind calmer and more focused. Being stuck at home doesn’t mean you must waste this precious four-day holiday in bed. Take advantage of this break to practice meditating a habit. It’s a time for reflections, after all. It doesn’t require too much of your time each day. A simple ten or fifteen minute breathing meditation per day is enough to help you overcome your stress and find some inner peace and balance.
- Challenge yourself to a clean and lean diet
If you are one of those who choose to observe this occasion quietly and in the privacy of your home, why not go on a fast? Fasting is done not just for religious but for health reasons, too.
Some benefits of Fasting are:
- Gives the digestive system a time to rest
- Helps the body in flushing out toxins
- Makes one feel physically light (If you are in a prayerful or meditative mode this Holy Week, then this might help)
- Increases mental clarity
Fasting is like cleaning or housekeeping according to naturopathic doctor Linda Page, also the author of the book “Detoxification.” It is a way to “clear out the tubes and pipes in the body.” (Rappler)
The season of Lent requires Catholics to fast, others do it as a way to focus on their meditation. You might as well maximize the occasion by focusing your meals on leafy greens and some lovingly steamed fish, with a side of fresh fruit and natural juices. Say goodbye too to sweet and salty indulgences as part of your penitence, and your body will be incredibly thankful for the break.
5. Give your loved ones some break
In this four-day break, why not serve your loved ones in a special way? You may want to arrange a massage session at home. You can book a massage therapist or even do it personally for them. After all, they are also working hard too, may it be in the office or at home. This is a way “to wash their feet” in your own small way. Don’t forget to use Oleia Topical oil to make it more relaxing for them. Oleia Topical oil has anti-inflammatory agents that target the cells that cause pain. It is all natural, safe and pleasantly scented that your family will surely love.
How are you going to spend your Holy week? Share with us.
About The Author
Andrea is a full time home maker. When she is not busy taking care of her husband and kids, she goes out giving financial management talks. She is a proud breastfeeding mom for four years running and an avid Oleia Topical Oil user.
