Flicking through the pages of your diary you experience a cold shiver. The empty pages carry a stark message. No one is booking appointments for the month of December. Wracking your brains for an answer, it suddenly comes to you. It’s the holidays and all of your clients are busy and watching their cash flow. You have no work to do; it’s time to take care of yourself. At certain times of year it’s perfectly normal to have spells where there are no bookings. During the summer months many are busy with family and school holidays, and December can be equally hectic.  With careful business planning this should not create any financial hardship. As a therapist it is perfectly normal to acquire negative energy from clients. This can accumulate despite regular clearing exercises and there comes a point where therapists need the time and space to offload. However hard you try to protect your energy there is always a saturation point.  Gaps in your business are essential for releasing those clouds of oppressive, accumulated negative energies.  This is the perfect time to address your own needs. Self-care is an individual responsibility. Prioritizing your own needs takes effort and organization so don’t leave things to chance. Use your free time sensibly and don’t waste it. Plan ahead and schedule in relaxation sessions, lunch with friends, or cozy afternoons with family. Visit a Spa or take a short break away from home. Go back to bed after breakfast with your favorite book or movie. Never feel guilty about your down time, it’s your own personal therapy. Reconnecting with family is essential too. Taking time to talk and laugh without watching the clock can prevent small issues escalating into major catastrophes.  Letting go of control and delegating family chores will give you more time to yourself. Meditate and get back in touch with your own healing.  When sticking to a timetable and focusing on others needs you can easily overlook your own well-being.  With each period of healing comes enlightenment.  You have time to allow in some changes which can only benefit your future healing practice. You will be prepared for a family Christmas and have energy for celebrating.  When you return to work it will be refreshed with you raring to go once again, energized and giving your clients the full benefit of your expertise. Views:]]>