From the Heart of Tania: Embracing Self-Care in Busy Times

Dear valued guests,
 
This time of year is always busy – gearing up for the December holidays, the start of year-end events, braais, and socialising, and let’s not forget, exam time for those with older children!

So I wanted to share with you, as someone living with Epstein-Barr some of my strategies for dealing with exhaustion. This condition lies dormant but can be triggered by stress. The diagnosis has been both a challenge and a revelation for me. I truly understand the depths of exhaustion.

This reality has accentuated the importance of being in tune with one’s body and mind. There are times when the fatigue feels all-consuming, but I’ve discovered that with the right self-care rituals, I can navigate even the most tiring days.

This weekend, my brother remarked that I have ‘oemf,’ and that’s why I can just keep going!

In Afrikaans, we say someone “has oemf” to describe an intrinsic drive, a fire within, that propels them forward. It’s that tireless spirit, an inner engine that refuses to stall. And for those who seem to lack it, there’s a tongue-in-cheek suggestion that perhaps a fire needs to be lit under them to spark some action.

But where does this ‘oemf’ come from? Why do some people have it in abundance while others search for its mere flicker? To these questions, I confess, I have no definitive answers. All I know is that for me, having ‘oemf’ wasn’t a choice; it was and continues to be, a necessity.

Running a business while raising two children on my own, I often find myself standing at life’s crossroads, where the signposts read: “Do” and “Don’t.” Choosing “Don’t” is a luxury I cannot afford. If I don’t step up, who will? If I don’t solve the problem, find the solution, or push through the exhaustion, who will?

This ‘oemf’ of mine isn’t born from an innate superhero quality or an unending well of energy. It stems from the reality that life waits for no one. Each morning, as the sun peeks through my window, it’s a reminder of the unyielding march of time and responsibilities. The bills won’t pay themselves, the business won’t run itself, and my children won’t raise themselves.

Perhaps, then, this ‘oemf’ is less about an extraordinary quality and more about an extraordinary situation. It’s the manifestation of the saying, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” It’s the embodiment of resilience when faced with no other option but to be resilient.

In this journey, I’ve stumbled, fallen, and picked myself up more times than I can count. I’ve cried in frustration and laughed in the face of adversity. This ‘oemf’? It’s been my silent companion, my unacknowledged ally. It’s been the whisper that says, “You can do this” when everything else screams, “It’s impossible.”

So, to those who wonder about this mysterious ‘oemf,’ I say: It’s not something I can fully explain. It’s not a badge I consciously chose to wear. It’s simply the product of a life where standing still was never an option, where moving forward was the only way to survive and thrive.

And maybe, just maybe, that’s the beauty of ‘oemf.’ It’s not a gift bestowed upon a chosen few. It’s a force that awakens within when life demands it, reminding us of the incredible strength and resilience that lies dormant in us all, waiting for its moment to shine.

This season, I urge you to listen to your body and soul. Many of us are running on reserves, giving so much of ourselves to our responsibilities, families, and work. It’s time we realise that self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially when you need to find your “oemf”!

Every day, I prioritise a balanced diet and try to go outside for a walk, even if it’s just for a 20-minute stroll.

Tension Releasing Exercises (TRE®) have been a significant part of my wellness journey, providing solace during challenging moments. Some days, the weariness seems all-consuming. Yet, amidst the fatigue, I’ve learned the paramount importance of nurturing oneself.

 As November approaches, we want to make it easier for you to spoil yourself, and those you love.
 
Corporate Packages: With corporate year-end events around the corner, our spa is brimming with bookings. But we’ve got you covered! Our tailor-made corporate packages are designed to provide rejuvenating experiences for groups, ensuring everyone steps out feeling revitalised.
 

New Spaces: Exciting news! We are nearing the completion of our brand-new conference and yoga space.
 
Upcoming Retreats: Dive deep into relaxation and self-awareness with our yoga retreats scheduled for November and December. Also, mark your calendar for our special TRE retreat in January – a holistic experience you won’t want to miss!

November Signature & Express Promotions: For those seeking a brief escape from the daily grind, our November promotions offer the perfect solace. A quick time-out can make all the difference!

Midweek Surprises & Last Minute Deals: Every week has a silver lining! Stay connected with us on social media to discover enticing deals before the weekend. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
 
Black Friday Voucher Sale: The biggest sale of the year is on the horizon. This Black Friday, seize our massive voucher sale – a golden opportunity to gift yourself or your loved ones a slice of tranquillity.
 
In the midst of this busy season, I hope you find moments to pause, breathe, and rejuvenate. Remember, taking time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential, and as the year’s end approaches, it’s natural to feel weighed down by the challenges and responsibilities. But remember, deep within you lies an unyielding ‘oemf’—a source of strength and resilience.  

In these final months, I encourage you to tap into this inner power. ‘Oemf’ isn’t about never tiring or doubting; it’s about persisting in the face of adversity.

Reflect on your journey, and the hurdles you’ve crossed, and let this fuel your courage. Your ‘oemf’ is there, a quiet force, ready to surge when needed.

Let’s embrace these final months with determination and optimism. You are stronger and more resilient than you realise. Here’s to finding and embracing your ‘oemf’ and ending the year on a triumphant note!

With warmth, encouragement, and love, 
Tania