After my spinal surgery, I realized that I had devoted much of my energy to helping others. I find myself getting easily frustrated and feeling pressured to accomplish tasks. (Back in the bubble again.) I yearn for the tranquility of walking along a peaceful beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing. I am slowly learning how to love my true self again.
It is truly a radical act to prioritize your own health and peace of mind. With that being said rest for me is being intentional with my mind and body. If I decide to take a nap, listen to music or laugh with loved ones at dinner instead of bringing work home, I will do so without any self inflicted guilt. What is not restful for me is not being able to be my authentic self. Nothing is more exhausting than being something I am not for the sake of society or others.
Rest for me is: Freedom. It is being ok with awkward silence. It is being able to do the things that I love, without being questioned or challenged. It is not being needed. Rest is not: Having to worry about how I show up, or worrying about how I am perceived. It is not doing things for other people at the expense of my own wants, needs or desires.
After my spinal surgery, I realized that I had devoted much of my energy to helping others. I find myself getting easily frustrated and feeling pressured to accomplish tasks. (Back in the bubble again.) I yearn for the tranquility of walking along a peaceful beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing. I am slowly learning how to love my true self again.
It is truly a radical act to prioritize your own health and peace of mind. With that being said rest for me is being intentional with my mind and body. If I decide to take a nap, listen to music or laugh with loved ones at dinner instead of bringing work home, I will do so without any self inflicted guilt. What is not restful for me is not being able to be my authentic self. Nothing is more exhausting than being something I am not for the sake of society or others.
Restful is staring into the trees at my cabin. Restful is listening to the rain. Restful is building a fire and making tea.
Not restful is being on the computer. Not restful is trying to find missing paperwork.
Rest for me is: Freedom. It is being ok with awkward silence. It is being able to do the things that I love, without being questioned or challenged. It is not being needed. Rest is not: Having to worry about how I show up, or worrying about how I am perceived. It is not doing things for other people at the expense of my own wants, needs or desires.
This is beautiful, Arlene. I love that you've created a deeply grounded offering that is designed to nourish and satisfy.