Finding what fuels you and making time for it
Nowadays, when I finally get the time to step away and do something for myself (like taking a shower), I embrace every minute of it. I have turned this daily task into a whole session with a candle and zen music. Giving myself the attention and time to destress, sounds a little conceited as I write it but it has changed the game and my way to refuel.
All day it’s a juggling act of puppy, work, puppy, puppy, cleaning. Then you throw friends, boyfriend, family into the mix, everyone needs different attention. It can be a lot. Getting our high-energy Aussie, Leo, definitely advanced things a level. And in a way, it has given me a little kick to get things back in motion.
We had Leo for a month when it became officially a year since the word pandemic came into our knowledge. Finding a schedule, a rhythm was hard for many this past year. Doing a lot more from home, like working, added flexibility to our daily routines. And before I continue let me give all the praise to parents during this time. Holy shit, I cannot even imagine.
Making the time is key. The better you get with a routine, the easier it will be to get things done for yourself and those you care for. And of course, the unpredictable can happen during the day. During one of Leo’s daytime naps, I get the opportunity to get stuff crossed off my to-do list. Or possibly take a nap myself. And that brings up a question, are naps considered an act of self-care?
Some people will say that taking naps during the day is a sign of underlying issues. Unmotivated, lazy. I grew up in a home where naps were common. In high school, I would get home from cheer, eat dinner, take a nap, then do homework. Even in off season, there was likely always an after-school nap. And being in quarantine allowed for more time in the day to get a nap in. Finish work and I’m already home, a nap is irresistible. Not every day but if I am feeling like I need it.
And just how a nap may be what’s calling you, it can also be meal prepping, taking a bath/shower (water is so important in our lives), reading, doing yoga, or catching up with the latest show obsession. Currently: Downton Abbey. Whatever it is that gives you energy or joy find the time.
If you’re anything like me, always have one too many things to do in a day, add yourself to that list. One hour. Set yourself up in the day to allow for that time to happen at the end of the day or even block out an hour during the day to check out and check-in with yourself. Life does not always go as planned so when you do have the opportunity to create a routine with you in it, make sure to grab it.
Jane Theory 