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Inevitably the night was not young. Rest did not start earlier, allowing for sleep ahead of the five am wake-up. You just couldn’t pull yourself away from the destination. There was one more neighborhood to visit, one more yummy meal to enjoy, walking and wandering from Christmas tree to holiday light display around the city. 

Why we’re you not feeling satiated? What was the attachment? You craved just one more and then another experience, almost as if it was the last (which it wasn’t). 

Answer: Resistance to change. You don’t want to adjust, travel on the plane and return. Life will invariably continue to change. A New Year, like a departure, is almost upon us.  

More gratitude, less action and quiet will pave the way for a thoughtful return, a change, a re-entry, and an embrace of 2024.

Transitioning from one place to another, one project to a new endeavor, one year to the next, with new opportunities and loss, is not easy. Time creeps up and suddenly we must change. Circumstances are different.

How might we ready ourselves for whatever is to come in the future?  

Returning from a trip offers us a glimpse into how we can adapt. There’s a choice. We either make our To Do list and let life and  next year consume us. Or we are intentional about how to create space around our experiences and focus on what we want in our lives.

Here are some tips to prepare for a return home and another year:

Sleep and Rest

Sleep on the plane. You might say that you don’t sleep on planes. No problem…listen and rest.  Close your eyes with earphones. Let your mind become quiet. Bring a comfy sweater to stay warm on the flight. Grab your coat and rest it over your legs. 

In 2024 rest is a Must-Do every day. No skimping! Go to sleep whenever you’re ready and catch some extra ZZZZZ’s. Start earlier.  

Fuel with Nutrition

Eat. Feed your body well. If possible, before boarding the plane grab something of substance versus junk food. Even arrive early at the airport and treat yourself to a meal before boarding the plane.

In 2024 our bodies need care, especially if they are to hold stress. Be attentive to nutrition.

Drink Healthy  

Water is king. Hydrate well.  

In 2024 carry your water bottle with you everywhere.

Ramp up Wellness 

Book a massage. If you arrive home in the morning, plan a massage later in the day. Make the call when you’re driving from the airport to home. Or move around outside even if just around the block.

In 2024 add wellness to your calendar, each month if possible.

Unpack   

Yes, empty the suitcase so it doesn’t stare at you the next day. You’re home now. The same applies for releasing negativity. 

In 2024 find a way to manage challenging emotions, the feelings that make you sad, for example.  It’s always ok to hire a therapist. Or pick up the phone and connect with a friend. Empty the bag. 

For the plane and 2024 you need:

*A water bottle (take care of you body at the molecular level); 

*Headphones (block out the noise);

*Willingness to rest versus create your “To Do” List (real quiet in your day);

*Comfy and warm clothing (kindness for yourself).

Let your mind rest. Listen. You have a full year, 365 days ahead! 

The Winter of Listening by David Whyte

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