By Dr Linda Hancock
‘God rest ye merry gentlemen, let nothing you dismay...’
NO one knows who wrote these lyrics, but it is believed that
they originated in the sixteenth century, when bands traveled around London
singing in taverns.
The first publication was in 1833 and since then, people in
different countries have adopted this carol as part of their traditional
celebrations at Christmastime.
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| Is time for you to 'Chillax'? |
The word “dismay” is not one that we usually use in everyday
conversation. It means, “distress”. There are more contemporary ways of stating,
“Let nothing you dismay”.
One day, for example, when I was in a bit of a panic at work
trying to get everything done, my son said “Chillax”.
At first I was puzzled, as I had never heard this word
before. Once I thought about it though and realized that it is a combination of
the words “chill” and “relax”, I laughed.
People need to “chillax” more often. Those who focus on the
past and worry about all the things that they cannot change, set themselves up
for depression.
On the other hand, individuals who are concerned about the
future and waste both time and effort trying to predict what hasn’t even
happened yet are vulnerable for an anxiety disorder.
The best way to stay peaceful and calm is to practice living
in the moment. Each day focus on doing things that will promote self-care and
well-being.
Take action and do things rather than staring at the wall
while chaos piles up around you. Ensure that your environment is clean,
organized and positive.
Bring out all the special items that you have been saving
for company and enjoy them! Chillax!
If you have issues and feel “stuck”, find someone who has a
record of successfully resolving similar problems.
Do some research so that you will gain understanding and
know the options that are available for you to consider.
The first line of this carol gives us a good hint about how
to handle life better. It suggests that gentlemen (and gentlewomen of course)
should rest.
The ability to think clearly and enjoy a good mood is
improved when we get enough sleep. I was going to suggest that you turn off the
television and head to bed a little earlier.
But then I thought about the fact that there weren’t televisions
in the sixteen hundreds.
Funny to think that the tavern singers were trying to
encourage those who were drinking and ‘dismaying’ to go home and get some
sleep!
It really doesn’t matter in which century a human is born.
There always have been and always will be temptations that can interfere with
healthy living.
But getting enough rest and not allowing distress to rule
our lives will bring us the rewards offered in the final line of this carol:
Tidings of comfort and joy!
Chillax!
And now I would like to invite you to claim your Free
Instant Access to a complimentary list of 10 Steps to Making Your Life an
Adventure when you visit http://lindahancock.com
From Dr. Linda Hancock, Registered Psychologist and
Registered Social Worker
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9591492
