When even self care is too much...
When self care starts to slip because it feels like just one more task that needs to be accomplished, it's a pretty good indication your life has become too full. Unfortunately, these are the times when you need it the most.
We want to have it all, but even a life full of everything you want can be too much.
A good friend over the weekend commented on how I've had a very full and exciting life. She asked me what part of it I've enjoyed the most. After thinking for a moment or two, I told her that do believe I'm enjoying my life now the most.
Life has never felt so good and I know a big reason for this is how much I got rid of. I stopped working as hard. I stopped trying to do what everyone else expected or said that I needed to do. I downsized my belongings. And I simply let it be okay to do less.
What remained has felt richer, more fulfilling and more deeply satisfying. It greatly reduced my stress and it left me with more time to be fully present and enjoy time with the people I care about.
If this resonates with you, let me assure you, the changes needed to get to where I find myself today didn't happen overnight. They started with one small decision at a time.
The easiest way to start is by being curious. How could you do what you are doing today more easily? more efficiently? How can you simplify your work? your belongings? the simple tasks you do all the time?
Open yourself to doing things differently and little by little you'll find more time. In the meantime, don't skip the self care completely. Here are a few ideas that are quick, but meaningful:
Self Care Suggestions for a Too Full Life:
✨ do nothing, simply sit and let your body calm down for a beat
✨ a short walk outside
✨ extra five minutes in the shower, eyes closed enjoying the heat
✨ a few moments for feeling gratitude
✨ step outside for fresh air and take 5 slow, intentional breaths (no phone, no agenda)
✨ put your hand on your heart, close your eyes, and check in with how you actually feel
✨ make a cup of tea or coffee and drink it without multitasking
✨ clear one small surface (a counter, a table) and enjoy the sense of space it creates
I am allowed to do less and enjoy more.
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