From the Editor
The giving season is on us once again. Depending on the religious and cultural traditions that we observe, we are giving thanks, we are giving gifts, or we are giving something up. We give money, and occasionally time and energy, to charitable causes during this time of year. We cook, bake, and make gifts using our talents and skills. We do not do these things because we have to; we do them because we want to. We do it to express ourselves and to share with our loved ones and with our community. Sometimes we literally give until it hurts and until our health suffers. We must learn to give to ourselves, to love and nurture ourselves. It almost sounds selfish to think or write those words at this time of year when giving isemphasized at every opportunity. Yet it is essential to our being able to give. We have to love ourselves in order to love others — the adage may be tired, but it is true. Do we do for ourselves what we do for others?
Practicing simple healthy habits like deep breathing, making sure we drink enough water, getting a few hours of genuine sleep each night, and remembering to take our vitamins or herbal supplements can make a huge difference in our energy levels during the “giving season.” Taking a few moments to reflect on all the resources we have available that enable us to give and express our gratitude for those — even if it is an unspoken thought, or a note scribbled in a journal — recharges our batteries and infuses our spirit once more. Spending quality time with friends and family is another way to refuel our giving energy.
Reading the new issue of Holistic Times is one way you can unwind and give some time back to yourself. In addition to the usual content, this issue includes our complete guide to the 2007 natural health conference, a travelogue of the Herbal Mountain Medicine Appalachian Tour with Darryl Patton and Phyllis Light, and an interview with Donna Carey and Ellen Franklin of Acutonics®.
Regardless of how you choose to do it, remember to give a little to yourself this season while you are doing for others — you will get more joy out of giving!
Tara N. Brown,
Editor
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