I try, at least once a week to have an entire day that is only about me - anything goes. In fact, the only rules are whatever it is, I must gain pleasure and that I must not catch a glimpse of guilt.
One of my angel sisters taught me that downtime (AKA sit/stay for all you dog training speak people out there) is a vital way of
keeping balance in my world, and that rest is likely one of the most healing zones
in the universe for the core spirit. It is self care - not
selfISH. This has been one of the most lovely and productive lessons of my entire life. Feel free to insert ironic giggle here - downtime equals productivity? YES.
Sometimes I eat soup (and yes, crackers) in bed watching movies for the entire day in my PJ's. Other times it's crocheting my heart out - or writing - or cooking - or reading - or doing 12 crossword puzzles - or going for a hike - or learning something about a topic that has been burning me with curiosity - or I build a mental a fort of blankets to block the energy of others. For quite a while, it meant two, that's right gentle reader, TWO naps in one day. I proudly call that my sloth period. I went wild one Sunday and took three baths. I may stay away from all communication technology - or not. My choice.
One of the magical parts of this concept, is that often, I will do one of the things on my to-do list that has been giving me pressure. Or (as my friend M calls it) J(z)enn day - pressure suddenly turns into pleasure.
This morning when I woke, I realized I needed to have a day to myself, STAT. It's not holiday stress - that's not my style, as I dearly love this season that is all about love - it feels as though everyone has joined me on my daily take on life.
So, what's up, Jenn? - that's what I had to ask myself. (It's always a good idea to actually get in touch with yourself, I've noticed here lately)
What I realized is that during this transition time from my recent move, is I've been putting subconscious pressure on myself. The garden needs my attention. I owe countless responses to emails. I offered to help a friend with her resume and didn't realize she had a deadline. I washed my sheets yesterday but they never quite made it on the bed. (Well, they are on the bed, but in a pile at the foot of it - unfolded I might add- I just pretended I was at a slumber party last night) I've got a list of gifts to make for people. I've had some incredibly deep, life-changing conversations recently that I've not fully processed.
Ring, ring. It's for you, Jenn - it's the universe phoning to tell you to slow down.
Doing, doing, doing is not necessarily being.
Sometimes I feel as though I need to justify J(z)enn days. Then I stop and ask - to who? Why? The more I treasure and take care of myself, the better off everything is. I even posted on FB that I was officially declaring this day as all mine. The responses were beautifully stunning - everyone told me to enjoy myself - that I was worth it. I assumed it may appear that I was isolating or even (GASP) being lazy. The real question in those assumptions is whose life is this?
Sometimes the answer is simply this: It IS all about me.
It is my greatest wish that we all begin to realize self care, especially when under pressure is the only choice - the only answer. Sit/stay.
Must dash - The Sloth Era discussion reminded me I need a nap and my soup is ready.
Very good!
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