Wednesday, March 4, 2015

"Serenity Now!"

"Do you pop in your earbuds with soft flute music? or lie in warm jasmine bubbles midst flickering candles? or do you sit by the window savoring a nice Bordeaux? Maybe, you lotus your body chanting "oommmm?"

When everyday life becomes a traffic jam of boss's demands, reports due yesterday, "to do" lists that only get longer, it is essential to take a moment or sixty to rest and recharge. Before my retirement it seemed impossible to find a time to relax, even the weekend had its own "to do" list. Relaxing meant doing nothing, and there was too much to do...no free moments available. What I didn't realize is that all along the answer was on the tip of my...toes. Pedicures. Pedicures are the answer, and although my experiences are limited in number and very diverse, they all have one thing in common: no computers, no cell phones, no demands, no responsibilities. 

My first pedicure was more celebratory in nature; my neice had reached a notable birthday. Opting for the full treatment, we were ushered into a private room away from the hustle and bustle of the spa's popularity. From a brisk cleaning and exfoliating exposing the refreshed pink skin to a relaxing scented massage that broke down the tightness in my...neck? Oh, yes...the massaging of my feet brought on a relaxing tingle running all the way up to my neck. But, instead of an introspective repose, my neice and I shared the moment by catching up and bonding as adults. We never stopped talking once, and it was enjoyable...

My second pedicure was also celebratory as I reached my own notable birthday. Any new senior citizen deserves being treated to a pedicure! I sat in a small comfortable room, soft lighting, quiet music, allowing me a little more peace and quiet to contemplate my new AARP status. The young lady knew my step-mother, so some of the hour was spent talking about family. However, as she focused on the task at hand...I guess, task at foot, I was able to close my eyes and enjoy the bubbling soak, the massage chair (Can I get one?), and again the wonderful tingling sensation relaxing my shoulder and neck muscles. I am starting to understand the necessity of taking those moments for oneself...

My third and latest pedicure was one I was greatly anticipating. The day spa was known for its tranquil environment, quality Hungarian products, and I had previously enjoyed a wonderful soothing facial, so I knew that I would receive quality treatment. Entering I was enveloped by such pleasing scents and soft music, dimmed lights, the trickling of water, and everyone speaking in soft tones. I sat comfortably; my feet soaking. I soon closed eyes; my body relaxed. Oh...the invigorating exfoliating scrub, the radiating massage, the heated wrap... What was I suppose to do today?...I forgot.

After each pedicure, I experienced a level of euphoria that lingered for hours; I seemed to sleep better for a few nights; my feet maintained a smooth, pinkish glow; and the tinted toenails continued to solicit a little childish giggle. Obamacare should include monthly pedicures...For mental health, they're very medicinal!

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