When you have moved to a new country it is not unusual to experience waves of nostalgia. Nostalgia is described as many things, a yearning to return to the past, a desire to return to a country of origin, or a sentimental memory from a previous relationship.

Nostalgia can be triggered by a number of things, a word, a smell, a sight, a picture, music, films, a photo, and much more.

I am sure we have all experienced a wave of Nostalgia at some time in our lives. It usually hits quickly and without prior warning and tends to be accompanied by old emotions and feelings.

Nostalgia itself is not a negative feeling to have; the feelings can be of happy memories from the past and can feel quite exhilarating. Attachment to Nostalgia can however lead to negative feelings.

By attachment I mean becoming so infused with the feeling of nostalgia that you are no longer in the present moment. You may have noticed that when a wave of Nostalgia goes through you that your whole body and mind feels different, often giving a sense of emotional vulnerability. Your thoughts can become entangled with only the past memories and there can be a feeling of no longer being grounded.

If your feelings of nostalgia are of pleasant memories then dwelling on them and becoming entangled in those thoughts can cause a feeling of unease and a want to be back in the past rather than where you are in the present moment.

Dwelling on unpleasant nostalgic memories can also cause a feeling of unease and a want to be somewhere familiar rather than where you are in the present moment.

These nostalgic moments after a recent move to a new and unfamiliar country or state can enhance the feeling of wanting to return home or of feeling vulnerable and can quickly lead to feelings of sadness and unease. (more…)

“Walking is good for solving problems – it’s like the feet are little psychiatrists”  ~ Terri Guillemets

So once again I find myself writing about walking. It seems I am getting hooked on the subject. There is a good reason for that, walking is healthy in so many ways.

Walking helps to relieve stress which is great when you are preparing for a move or you have just moved. Walking at a good pace gets your endorphins going so you feel great and more energetic.

When you have just moved to a new place, walking around the neighbourhood can create a feeling of familiarity and ease with your new surroundings. When walking you may see things that you may not have noticed while driving.

Walking is great exercise. Just 20 minutes a day is enough if you are unable to find time for any other exercise and the fresh air is good for your complexion.

It is fun to walk with friends; it’s a good chance to catch up while getting exercise that doesn’t seem like exercise. This is also a good way to get to know people, start a walking group with others who are new to the area. (more…)