Word of the Week

Solitude

Definition: the state of being solitary or secluded

Consider this...

Solitude always has a negative connotation. Understandably, people find great comfort in being around other people. Having good relationships with others opens us up to a world of benefits: safety, support, help, access to resources, and of course, wonderful emotional connections that fill us with love, joy and wonder.

Over time, this knowledge has evolved into sagelike sayings that we are all familiar with. “No man is an island,” and “It takes a village” astutely remind us that it isn’t always the best idea to alienate ourselves from our fellows for good.

But what about taking a short, but much-needed break?

Sometimes, retreating to a quiet and restful place to enjoy spending time with ourselves is just the right fix for a variety of maladies. Especially after the whirlwind of the holidays, taking some alone time to recuperate can be healing for your body and mind.

Alone time is especially precious when we are so saddled down with intrusive technology - laptops, cell phones, and emails constantly butt in to our daily schedules and threaten any privacy we struggle to scrounge up.

Taking a few hours, or even a few short minutes, to unplug and unwind can be immensely pleasurable and wholly beneficial. Enjoy a favorite TV show, read a good book or magazine, or do nothing at all - just be sure to spend that time treating yourself to whatever it is that makes you happy.

After all, the village isn’t going anywhere. So sit back and relax, and enjoy the solitude.