This time of year, we hear so much about the importance of savoring the season.

And yet—thanks to the calendar—this year’s holiday season didn’t just feel rushed, it was rushed! Hanukkah and Thanksgiving overlapped to the point of becoming “Thanksgivukkah,” and the gap between the latter and Christmas was a week shorter than normal. So, whew, Happy New Year 2014!

What’s a body to do? To whatever degree possible: breathe, bask, enjoy, and give the gift of bodywork—to yourself or a loved one. Stepping away for an hour from the busyness of the season is priceless. You know there’s nothing like that refreshed feeling when you emerge from a bodywork session. Transitioning out of a hot stone treatment, I always feel like a Gumby girl. When I emerge from a Thai massage session, I’m sure I can leap mountains.
Whatever your favorite modality, you pick the aftereffects. Sign yourself up. Sign up someone you care for. Just do it. It will help you cope, enjoy, and embrace the new year.