‘Tis the season of the hustle and bustle of the holidays. ‘Tis the season of the common cold and flu. ‘Tis the season for the innumerable class parties and school projects. ‘Tis the season of heightened emotions surrounding unresolved issues with relatives. ‘Tis the season the loneliness is evermore felt whether you’re surrounded by loved ones or literally alone. ‘Tis the season of #FOMO. ‘Tis. The. Season!
If any of the things above resonated with you, I assure you you are not alone. I have had to be more intentional in showing up for myself. I am finding in such a season as this, this intentionality can seem very small insignificant but carry so much weight in its impact. Here are some ways I have so much weight in its impact. Here are some ways I have been intentional in breathing life into this season or giving myself a little energy boost to keep on keeping on.
1. Journaling
When I take time to journal, I give myself permission to acknowledge my feelings and process them. In Alex Elle’s book, How We Heal, she encourages her readers to let their journal be their “confidant, companion, and mirror.” I love those descriptors because that is exactly what i’ve found mine to be. My favorite part was when she described the journal as “a safe place to fall apart and come back together.” There have been seasons when journaling is just as routine as brushing my teeth every morning, but in this season my journal has become my safe place I run to when I need a confidant or companion.
2. Nature
Whether I’m racing to the beach to watch the sunset, sneaking out for an early morning walk, hiking a new trail, or laying in my hammock in my backyard soaking up the sun… taking time to be in nature always breathes life into me. I know you don’t all live in California where the sun is always shining. Haha! However, scientist estimate our bodies can produce vitamin D in about 5-30 minutes in the sun depending on your shade of skin. Be careful and use sunblock! LOL! Anywho, just 15 minutes in the sun a day can make a significant difference on your stress levels, bones, immune system, and depression to name a few.
3. Diffusing Oils
Years ago, I got into diffusing oils, but I have definitely not been using them like I need to. I’ve been more consistently using them lately, and I must admit it has been helpful in shifting my mood and focusing my attention.
Whether I’m watching the oil diffuse or taking deeper breaths, I definitely feel like diffusing oils calms me and invites me to be more present in the moment. I especially enjoy turning on my diffuser first thing in the morning when everyone is still asleep and playing worship music. It’s a whole vibe. I become completely optimistic about the day.
4. Taking a bath
I’m talking pour the whole bag of Epson salt and half the bottle of bubbles in the tub, light a few candles, and turn on an album that helps you unwind. There’s something about taking a bath that slows me down, and I deeply appreciate it. Sometimes I listen to a podcast. Sometimes I watch a movie. Sometimes I listen to an audio book. Most often, I listen to music. My favorite kind of music to listen to while taking a bath is music without words, whether it’s lo-fi or instrumentals. I feel like this kind of music invites me to be more fully present in the moment. If you’re listening to the music on your phone, I would also suggest turning on “do not disturb.” Taking a bath is a sweet opportunity to just be and escape the hustle of the day.
5. Breahe
I dare you to stop reading this newsletter to take five intentional deep breaths. When I take a moment to do this throughout my day, it feels like self-care in a way that feels like I’m loving myself more deeply. I don’t know how to explain, but I invite you to try it. Stop ignoring your apple watch when it invites you to breathe. LOL! #guilty
Now that I’ve shared five ways I’m trying to be intentional about filling myself up, I’d like to invite you to do the same or use some of the ones above. Notice how none of the things above cost me anything but time. Believe me when I say the investment is worth it. I keep telling myself I don’t have time to do things like journaling or take a walk because there are more pressing things to take care of. However, God has been revealing to me in this season His ability to enlarge the capacity of time. Be encouraged!
Xo!
