At a glance, it may appear that another year has gone by with very little change. 2020 however, will be remembered as a historic and evolutionary time in our lives. This pandemic caused a whirlwind of events that have shaped us and given us reason to consider what is truly important. So for us to embrace the true spirit of Christmas this year, it may help to take a quick look at the year in review. How can words describe it? We have a family member who dies of cancer, as the COVID 19 virus begins to sweep its way across the globe. My husband and I trek in Patagonia, to return home to mass confusion about whether it’s necessary to wear masks in public. Household living is disrupted, and personal boundaries are blurred. Global warming continues to wreak havoc with wildfires. Schools close here and there, awhile homeschooling is assigned to the guardians. The Black Lives Matter movement is reinstated in full force, with protests worldwide. Businesses close at an alarming rate and anything that could possibly go online, goes online. We witness a very scary US presidential election. Travel plans change. Seniors and loved ones are in isolation and we cannot visit them. Friends have COVID. Family members get tested…
I could go on, but this is a message of hope and joy. Reflecting on this year not only shows us how reliving the past can take us on an emotional roller coaster ride, but it also demonstrates how resilient we are! May the Spirit of Christmas Present teach us to cherish what is left of 2020. After all, a simple, quiet and peaceful Christmas is but a dream for many. And even with our slightly different realities, we can all be rich with happiness. So instead of feeling isolated and separate with the circumstances we are presented with, find ways to feel connected and at home in your world. Reach out with technology to reconnect with friends, family and community. Enjoy some time in nature or do some yoga. Expand your reading, write in a journal or make a new music playlist. Create something different or new!
My friends, if you reading this and are unable to feel hope for what’s to come, or you would like some support restoring balance and harmony in your life, please reach out. You can finish this year with optimism for the future and improved self care. Let the Journey Begin by making an online connection with me and revisiting your yoga practice with new intention. If you reach out in 2020, I am offering a one time $20 Off online Initial Private Yoga Therapy session to those receiving this message.
Wishing you true peace and harmony this holiday season, and in the years to come.
Blessings and Namaste,
Lori Charko
C-IAYT Yoga Therapist
PEPPERMINT CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE
A perfect and fun recipe to prepare with family or friends over Zoom!
Ingredients
1/4 cup semisweet or milk chocolate chips
3 Tbsp low fat or fat free milk
1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
2 peppermint candies finely crushed (you can also substitute with ¼ tsp peppermint extract)
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe mug combine the chocolate chips, milk and crushed peppermint. Microwave for about 40 seconds. Stir with a whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the candies are mostly melted.
2. Add in flour, baking powder and oil. Stir with whisk until batter is smooth. Cook in microwave for about 1 minute. Top of cake should look done and dry to the touch. Let cool for a few minutes before eating.
