Editorial: Putting the outside world on pause at times can be healthy

Providence Forge’s Christmas Parade provided an opportunity for families to come out and spend some quality time with each other. The event was free to onlookers, and provided companies, individuals, and organizations the opportunity to participate whether it was promotion or if it was for fun. For me and probably some others, it was a chance to enjoy the event and not worry about the outside world.

In today’s society, there are many things that tend to yank us in a number of directions. From the issues with government to paying bills, the list tends to overrun what our minds and body are physically capable of handling. The stress accumulated from a multitude of items beyond our control that impacts us plays into our outlook on life.

But from New Kent’s and Charles City’s Grand Illuminations to the Providence Forge Christmas Parade to the upcoming Charles City Christmas Parade, those events allow those participating and observing to suspend time. Crowds cheer and wave as floats ride down the road. Kids sing along and imitate band instruments to their favorite Christmas carols. For me, the events play into a part of relaxation. They provide a mental getaway from bolting from place to place and always being on the go.

While vacations are always an enjoyable moment, most consist of pre-planning, organization, and logistics of travel. Sometimes, you just have to take some “me time.” We all have responsibilities, but we also have to make sure that we look out for ourselves. There have been times where I have personally looked out for others more than myself. While I have no problem at all doing that (and still continue to do that), I have come to the understanding that I need to look out for my health and my personal time as well. I’ve gotten older, but I also have gotten wiser.

Encapsulating time for one-self has proved vital scientifically. More of the older generations have embraced yoga as a stress relief, while the younger generation burns energy through athletics, dancing, or even mental reliefs such as video games.

Take an extra five to ten minutes to slow down and stretch before starting your day. Do a random one-day getaway or road trip. I can’t guarantee that those things will allow you to live longer, but I can say that they will make you feel better as a person.