As I was working on my PowerSheets at the start of this month, it became apparent to me, based on the busyness of my schedule in April and the calendar entries already marked for June, that May needed to have some margin in it for time to chill out, take it easy, and just. be.
Therefore, I have hereby declared May a month of rest and refreshment. Thirty-one days of slowing down, giving myself a breather from the hectic hustle and bustle of life, and carving out time for things that are life-giving and soul-inspiring.
So, what does this look like?
For me, it looks like having my work calendar balanced (to the best extent possible) with days of travel followed by days at home to catch-up and get refocused for the next task. It looks like taking little breaks here and there from social media – not constantly reaching for the phone and doing the mindless scroll through Facebook and Instagram when feeling “bored” or just trying to fill time. It looks like more time cooking and eating at home vs. going out for the “quick meal” on my way to the next place I have to go. It looks like doing at least one good thing for me every day, even for just thirty minutes, to read a book, paint my toes, get exercise, take a bath, watch a favorite show, etc. It looks like spending as much time as possible outside, both at home and at the lake, to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. And it also looks like getting on average, 8 to 9 hours of sleep every single night, to wake up invigorated and ready for the next day,
It won’t all go perfect, because nothing ever does, but my ultimate goal is to go into June with all of its fabulous activities (i.e. my bestie’s wedding!) in a state of grace and peace following an intentional time of rest and refreshment.
I need it. We all need it.
How are you practicing making time and space for rest and refreshment in these days? What things are filling you with what you need to get through the busyness of life?
Take care of yourself, friends!