It seems society (worldwide) actually encourages/enjoys pushing play. Messages all around us have our minds racing literally ev.er.y minute. And some of our minds start racing when we finally fall into bed at the end of an already long day!
Whatever we title it – play, perform, run – going non-stop is praised and glorified. Some of us are on the go because our work demands it and we fear switching careers or speaking up. Some of us say we’d like to see change and we want to be a part of change. Do we want to lead or help cultivate the much-needed change?
The accolades of other humans isn’t my personal goal anymore, so I’m pressing pause on the regular. Not everyone around me likes or understands the “pauses” and that is alright with me! I know that pressing pause is necessary for me to stay healthy.
For too long, I was running…on fumes. Taking care of everyone else around me…being in tune to the thoughts and words and requirements of others, but not my own. IF this is true for you, may I share what I’ve found helpful?
Daily: Make time for deep/intentional/focused breathing, meditation, prayer, reading (silently and aloud) affirmations such as: kind words, encouraging phrases and verses, journaling (this includes, notes on your phone or other electronic device!) and physical activity even if it’s just five minutes a day!
Weekly: Make time for reflection. Acknowledge the challenging. Applaud the positives. Make note of all that deserves gratitude. Connect with that inner circle of people; the much-needed village.
Monthly: Make time for at least one weekend day with no must-do activities…a sincere day of leisure with no requirements what-so-ever!
Quarterly: Make time for a weekend away (such as camping, swapping places with a close friend or renting a space – airbnb, bed and breakfast, hotel). Resist the urge to fill the weekend with activities. Give yourself (and your tripmates) time to just sit.
Yearly: Make time for a true vacation (no work!). If time and resources allow, take an international trip every few years to experience more of the beauty around our world.
Each of us are wired differently, but I hope the above is of some help in creating a plan to pause. As we go about our day/week, let’s pay attention to this: are we pressing pause as often as we need just for ourselves?
Common Day Hero: When I think of learning how to love and prioritize one’s self (self-care), regularly choosing moments of solitude, enjoying food that tastes good and is good for our bodies, you come to mind. You are considerate, funny and such a comfort to know. I will always remember your kindness to me and my sister in our younger years; it continues to warm my heart. Lisa, I dedicate this post to you.
