The other day, I posted on instagram about how I am learning that taking time out to take care of myself is very important.
I am the type of person that will say I’m fine even when I’m not. I spent an entire year of my life with migraines – literally a year – before saying anything about it. I don’t like feeling like I can’t deal with things. Maybe it’s the control freak in me but I don’t like to ask for help. From anyone. I don’t like to put anyone out. It is a big flaw of mine. But, I am learning that downplaying my struggles because someone may be going through something different or “harder” than I am doesn’t make me strong.
In fact it makes me weak. I am constantly telling my parents to take care of themselves, but I avoid it when they tell me the same thing. I know that self care is necessary. However, it’s more than just taking time off from working out to let my body rest and recover. It means going to the doctor regularly and as needed. It means taking time to journal my feelings when I’m overwhelmed. It means resting, not sleeping. Resting for me is when I can take time and do something that relaxes me. It’s when I can do something that takes my mind off of life and all that is going on.
Resting means praying/venting to my Abba out loud (in my head) when I can’t write. He’s my best friend. My confidant. My defender. My waymaker. And my best decision. And He wants me to take care of myself. How can I do what I was put here to do if I don’t? You can’t pour from an empty cup. I am more focused and efficient when I allow myself to take time out to relax and recharge. You would be too I bet.
Do you have some controlling tendencies? How do you rest and recharge so you are better able to let God take control?
Some things I do to relax and recharge:
- Take some Stasia +Abba time (Matthew 6:33)
- Remind myself that God knows more than I do. (Proverbs 16:9; Isaiah 55:8-9)
- Remember that God’s plans for me are much better than my own plans. (Jeremiah 29:11; Proverbs 16:3)
- Exercise – get moving
- Read/ Listen to a book (Currently reading Daring Greatly by Brené Brown)
- Do something Creative (Crochet, Bible Journal, write, color, Happy planner layouts ♥)
- Watch TV (Hallmark, ESPN, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+)
