Gardening
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Germinating
“During the times we think we’re being ‘unproductive,’ the seeds of new worlds are germinating within us, and they need peace to grow.” ~Martha Beck Somewhere along the line, I bought into the notion that I need to be working on something 24/7. I feel like a slacker if I’m not writing an article, teaching classes, organizing my home, digging in the yard, or otherwise being productive. You too? We live in a culture that celebrates busyness — so it’s not surprising that most of us are ashamed to admit that we need some time off. We’re afraid to be still. Or maybe we’re afraid that we’ll lose momentum. Today,…
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A garden-variety mood booster
You’ve probably noticed that your problems fade to the background whenever you’re engrossed in something you enjoy. I’m a worrier by nature, but I’ve learned over the years that doing something with my hands — and I don’t mean typing or fiddling with my cell phone — works better than any drug prescribed for anxiety. From plotting to planting, gardening is my best medicine. I spent most of yesterday afternoon browsing around several plant nurseries, comparing the various selections of herbs, annuals, and perennials. The fresh scents and bright colors gave me a much-needed lift after so many days of depressing news stories about mass shootings and political turmoil. Though…
