slowing down

There are days that fly by in a blink of an eye.  I rush from one thing to the next forgetting to slow down, take a breathe, and savor the moments.  Working in an office environment has pushed me deeper into this fast paced non stopping mentality.  There is always something to be done and before I even begin I am behind.  I must be quick and nimble.  Use every minute in the day and push things along quickly.  

This constant state of motion can wear a girl down.  Constantly seeking for answers.  Living in that state of unknowing.  Wondering which way to turn and jumping boldly.  It has pushed me to think on my feet.  Analyze quickly and move on.  But it has also sucked the wind out of me and has left me feeling exhausted.  

We all need time to slow down.  To soak in the sunset, day dream, and simply just be in the moment.  I know that I cannot be in a constant state of motion and conversation.  I need breathing space and moments of quiet to sink into.  The constant rush wears me thin and makes me lose my way.  

And so I turn to:

• Going for a walk around the block.  The movement of one foot in front of the other helps me to clear my head and slow down
• Pour myself a hot mug of tea, sit on my porch, and watch the world move forward
• Take time to dig into a book and read to my hearts content
• Light my twinkle lights, put on some favorite songs, and just sit on my couch and breathe

It is these simple self care practices that take me back.  They slow me down, rejuvenate my soul, and help breathe a little bit deeper.  What are some of your self care practices?  How do you get back to yourself when the world is constantly pulling you in many directions?  

Having a self care practice is very important.  You must know what heals you.  What brings you back.  Without that you may lose your way and not be sure how to find your way back.  I encourage you to take some time to develop your own self care practices and integrate them into your life when you feel like things are getting a little wonky.