I am the queen of living a busy life. Between a full time job, social gatherings, and keeping our household together, it is no wonder my mind is every which direction. Are you with me here?
It is in both the everyday moments and seasons when life is swirling around me that I need to care for myself. Productive work requires rest, creativity for blogging is born out of reflection and brainstorming, being the most genuine me comes from taking time to know myself well. Friends, taking the time to care for yourself is not selfish or egocentric, it is a necessary to live a healthy and meaningful life.
We find ourselves in a day and age that tells us to go, go, go and stop nothing short of perfection. Here's where all the perfectionists in the house, like myself, throw up a hand and say amen! We are told to be more and do more and that our worth is in how many checks we make on our to-do lists each day rather than living a satisfied life with Jesus. As we breeze right into 2015 later this week, I encourage you to reflect on ways to make yourself a priority and consider some of these ways to practice self-care.
Ditch the List
I live my life by lists - everyday adding and removing things that need to be done or what I need to remember. For the most part they help me stay organized and on top of things. On the other hand it adds pressure to daily life. Ditch your lists from time to time - or if that freaks you out too much like it does for me, set them aside temporarily - and focus on the hear and now. Be present and enjoy what is in front of you rather than what needs to be done.
Know What You Love
Sometimes in the process of daily life I find that I lose my sense of who I am and what I love. I forget that crocheting is relaxing when I am stressed out staring at a sink of dishes. Journaling consistently is put on the back burner when every minute of my day is filled and I crawl into bed much later than I'd like to admit. Take time to know what you love and remind yourself of those passions in busy times. And don't simply remind yourself, but practice them as a form of self-care.
Sit with Jesus
You are not alone in caring for yourself - our sweet savior longs to sit and recharge with you. He gives us the ability and strength to persevere but also meets us in quiet, sometimes lonely places when you need to be still. Allow yourself opportunities to sit and abide in Jesus with no agenda, lengthy list of petitions, or pleas. Just be.
How do you practice self-care?
What keeps you energized and passionate?
Labels: about me, Heart to Heart
