Ever since I started this “Breath of Fresh Air” series, I have held fast to just rule: No politics. We are being bombarded with political stories everywhere we go. I wanted at least one diary in my week that didn’t have to do with “that guy”. One diary a week where stories could be shared and friendships formed within a community like setting. Whether you are working or retired, there are still just 24 hours in a day to do everything you need to do for yourselves and your families. If you add that to the ongoing shitshow of the Current Administration, it means a lot of energy, both physical and emotional, is expended, and reserves start to run low. We've all talked about self-care since we knew #Resistance was going to be our only path forward, but now seems like a good time to remind ourselves what that means. The following compilation is provided to us by DoReMI because she’s a rockstar.
Healthy eating: When you're lagging, it's tempting to resort to the fastest, easiest food possible. Just remember, that can mean a simple meal in the crockpot, rather than the fast food joint on the corner.
Regular physical exercise: The key is to make physical activity a regular part of your day, whether that's a brisk walk, using stairs rather than an elevator, or cleaning the house. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes each day.
Reduce stress: We each have our own means and methods (for me, it's cozy mysteries, coloring, and doing puzzles), but knowing one's guilty pleasures and indulging in them helps maintain some semblance of sanity.
Time management: If you're saying, "There just isn't enough time!!!" on a regular basis, it may be time to take stock of your priorities and goals to ensure you're not biting off more than you can chew or just plain procrastinating.
Relaxation: This is not to be confused with lounging on the couch or general laziness; it is an active process that leaves one relaxed, whether it's massage, yoga, Tai chi, or just the practice of tensing and relaxing one's muscles.
Mindfulness: The act of “awareness without judgment of what is, via direct and immediate experience”. It's the difference between eating and savoring; between listening and hearing; between seeing and noticing.
Avoiding compassion fatigue: Avoiding is not the same as avoidance. Knowing your limits, asking for help, and recognizing that no one person can do it alone makes compassion fatigue much less likely.
Assertiveness: Direct, honest communication, as well as setting boundaries, make for a healthier, happier person.
And remember, when we work together, our voices will be heard. #StrongerTogether
Strong people stand up for themselves, but stronger people stand up for others.