Therapy

What come to mind when you hear the word "therapy"? Perhaps the word conjures up images of a plush couch in a dimly lit room... hashing out feelings and emotions, analyzing progress, outlining steps for success. Maybe this word triggers a series of commercials in your mind.. the sad looking white blob, promises and proclamations that these medications will change your life forever... In my line of work, I am a strong advocate for anti-depressants and anxiolytics. I have been educated on the pharmacodynamics behind these little life savers and have had so many patients improve dynamically on such medications. But I am somehow left in amazement with the breadth of therapeutic release that can be found among the simplest of things. With the right attitude (albeit sometimes best achieved with the help of our friend serotonin), bliss awaits in the most unexpected places and at the most random of times.

This weekend epitomized "therapy." This revelation was triggered the moment I slid down my shades, hit the lawn chair, and closed my eyes, soaking up the sunshine at the neighborhood pool. And so my three day weekend began. With every ray of sunshine I truly savored the opportunity for rest, relaxation, and a healthy serving of vitamin D. Therapy managed to find its way to the opposite extreme in the YMCA, of all places. A gruesome workout with my personal trainer left me exhausted and begging for more. Never underestimate the power of endorphins. Sometimes a 30 minute sweat session is just what the doctor ordered.

Therapy is the aroma of the garlic, herbs, and a wine-infused creation sizzling on the stove. The expression of cooking at its finest, the pride that comes with delivering a delicious meal. J and I were house sitting in the country this weekend and this particular kitchen happened to overlook a farm. Herb crusted tilapia, brown rice pilaf, and a caramelized shallot and carrot medley was most delightfully savored on the deck with an atmosphere impossible to describe. The breeze in the air, the field of horses, and the hues of the sunset proved to be the perfect backdrop to our supper scene.

Therapy is the simplicity of a car wash. Bare feet, suds and a bucket, scrubbing out each imperfection. J treated my car to extra TLC, whose waxed hood subtracts at least 2 years off my car's 13 year career. Therapy is the ability to laugh when you walk out the next day only to find a once shiny black beauty covered in pollen. It's the simplest things, really.

Therapy finds its place with each holiday season. Reflection on the Easter story, the goosebumps that come with the words "HE IS RISEN!" Singing "Hosanna in the Highest." Therapy is giving yourself permission to eat "peeps" for breakfast, a little dose of indulgence and a sugar buzz at least. Time spent with friends, meditation with the Lord, keeping traditions and making a new... it's more than enough to warm your spirit and lift your soul.