We all have times in our lives when we are so busy that it feels like 24h is not enough. I have been there and done that and so have you. I know it was stressful and I know that you felt it the same way I did. We all… or, some of us have been in a relationship (Regardless of the kind), where we feel like we’re being suffocated but had to accept it for what it is and just carry on. We all at some point in our existence had to deal with so much imposed responsibility that becomes a huge back-breaking and draining burden, sweat dripping from our forehead but we just carried on. But why?
I, like a lot of you out there, take my responsibilities very seriously. I am the kind that sometimes can take a bit more than I can carry for the sake of helping others, and most of those times, to my detriment. But do I ever complain about it? No. I may admit to myself that it was too much but I’ll make sure I see it through regardless of what I’m feeling. However, those times dedicated to so much work, responsibilities and compromises only add stress to our lives because they are so burdensome that there’s no room for us to have time for ourselves. If you’re like me, when you’re not doing it, you’re thinking about it.
Do you ever stop to think or count the number of calls you make a day or the number of messages you send a day? A lot, right? Now… how many of them were for yourself? I think taking time to be alone is extremely important and an absolute necessity in life, especially now that we are surrounded by social noise.
It’s important to take time and do things that make you feel good about yourself, refreshed, relaxed, and happy! Do something for yourself other than others and do it alone, in your own company. And when I say alone, I mean, no mobile phones allowed. I know it can be almost impossible for some but it’s worth trying. Leave your phone in another room for an hour and crush the urge of tempting to go and check. Just give it a try.
A lot of people don’t take time for themselves because they are way too busy, but my darling, it’s extremely important to prioritise a time in your busy schedule for yourself and it will help you be more relaxed, focused, happier and more productive.
I know for the busy mind it can be hard to think about it let alone find time to schedule it. But fear not, I have your back. I got a few tips that will help you get on track.
Start by making note of the places you would want to visit, they don’t have to be far or fancy, just a place where you know it will make you feel relaxed and visit them.
Make sure you take the time for yourself in the morning. This is your chance to be refreshed and ready for whatever the day may throw at you. Spend an hour or at least 30 minutes each morning reading, relaxing, walking or meditating before work.
Don’t forget about sleep! If you’re not getting enough rest or are feeling tired throughout the day, lack of sleep is what’s causing it! I would recommend spending one hour a day before bed for self-care and relaxation it will help you fall asleep much easier. This does not include being on your phone, online or watching TV.
Make “Me” time in your schedule for other activities as well, sometimes you may be able to squeeze in time for a quick nap, although not always, but if you have an hour lunch break, make it your me-time to gather your thoughts.
If you have the opportunity to get out of work early, turn your phone off and do something you enjoy, something that will make you feel great. Or simply say “no” to unnecessary burdens or take regular breaks to unwind.
And my top recommendation is to prepare a picnic basket with your favourite fruits or snacks and drinks, a good book or headphones to listen to music that relaxes you and go to a park near you, find a quiet spot, lay your blanket and relax.
But hey, all this is up to you. You just need to understand that it’s important for your wellbeing, healthy mind healthy body.
By the one and only,
Graciete
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