“Oasis” is dictionary defined as “something that provides refuge, relief, or pleasant contrast.” I would like to expand that definition to include the word “someone.” In the vicissitudes of everyday life people experience many challenges and opportunities to grow and survive. Stresses usually are a part of such processes.
For every person there are significant times of disappointment, pain, exhaustion, boredom, etc. Therefore, it is important for a balanced person to be able to relax, let go, release life pressures and just enjoy a moment of calm, joy, peace, and relaxation. No stress allowed in such moments!
People vary much as to whether they have an “oasis” or not, as well as who or what may serve as an “oasis” at a given time. Thus the reason for this article.
Do you, respected reader, have an “oasis”? If so, it is? Perhaps you have a number of “oases.” Where, to what, to whom do you go when you want “refuge, relief, or a pleasant contrast”?
Over the years I hear people tell me of their various “oasis” experiences. Some are places, people, and/or activities. A few examples follow:
Places: nature, sporting events, church/synagogue/ mosque, a back porch, neighborhood bar/restaurant, vacation spot.
People: spouse, child, parent, relative, friend, co-worker, significant other, mentor, therapist, preacher.
Activities: athletics, crafts, knitting or crocheting, reading, woodworking, boating, sensuality, sightseeing, ambling, games, television, internet.
This list may contain something or someone that serves as an “oasis” for you. You may have some of these or different ones.
When you come back to the challenges and opportunities of life are you in a better place physically, emotionally, intellectually, spiritually? If not, you have not been in an “oasis.” You have deluded yourself.
Some people try to convince themselves or others that their unhealthy addictive behaviors are “oases” for them. Wrong! They may provide a temporary “high,” thrill or adrenalin rush, but they ultimately are harmful. An “oasis” assists you in becoming a better person, one of vitalized integrity and energy.
May your life include frequent “oases” of rejuvenation!
—Dr. Stathas is a counseling psychologist, licensed marriage and family Therapist, in the Lake Oconee area. He is the founder of the Stathas Life Development Center. He can be reached at (706) 473-1780. E-mail: Stathas@plantationcable.net Web site: drstathas.googlepages.com.
Healthy Living
Oasis: Do you have one you can go to?
- Healthy Living
-
-
Processed meats: Friend or Foe?
Question from our inbox:
I’ve been told that Nitrates and Nitrites are bad for you. Can you tell me what they are and how I can avoid them in my diet.
MHC -
Couples should address the ‘elephant’ in the room
You have probably heard the expression, “there’s an elephant in the room and nobody’s talking about it”.
-
Jealousy, envy are reflections of insecurity
Jealousy and envy are character flaws.
-
Food can play a role in how you sleep
Believe it or not, food can play a role in how you sleep.
-
Is your home a sanctuary?
First of all what or where is “home?”
-
How to decide which oil is best for you
Believe it or not, food can play a role in how you sleep.
-
Want a good relationship? Develop a plan and script
Does anyone go into a relationship consciously wishing that it would go bad?
-
12 foods for the new year of 2012
Happy New Year! With this the start of 2012 and everyone attempting to conquer the world with their new year’s resolutions, I thought I’d make things simple.
-
New beginnings are possible: Meet ‘Caveman’
A new year approaches — a new beginning. Beginnings offer optimism and hope of what might be possible.
-
New Year’s Resolution — for life
How long do you think the average New Year’s resolution lasts?
- More Healthy Living Headlines
-
Processed meats: Friend or Foe?
NJ Museum Finds 19th Century Recording
Snow Causes Disruptions in Much of Europe
Clinton: Vetoed U.N. Syria Resolution 'travesty'
Romney Picks Up Decisive Win in Nevada Caucuses
Gingrich Renews Vow to Campaign Until Convention
Romney Rolls to Easy Win in Nevada GOP Caucuses
Raw Video: Missing Family Found Alive in Ore.
Police Clear Tents From Occupy Site in DC
Killer of Fla. Girl Found in Landfill Gets Life
Army Orders Bradley Manning Court-martial
Cancer Charity Revives Breast-screening Grants
Heavy Snowstorm Hits Colorado On Its Way East
2nd Teacher From LA School Arrested on Sex Claim
Prosecutors Close Armstrong Inquiry, No Charges
Sights and Sounds: Football Fans Pour Into Indy
Unemployment Rate Down to 8.3%
Fla. Man Adopts Girlfriend in Legal Battle
Raw Video: Prince William in Falklands
'Lucky' 9-Year-Old Receives 6-Organ Transplant
