This post is a little late because yesterday, when I would have normally written my post, I had to step back and listen to my body. In my 40s this is something I am learning the importance of doing.
September has been intense, all.
Two novellas due.
My oldest getting married.
ACFW national conference where I had board responsibilities in addition to co-teaching three workshops with the amazing Pepper Basham.
And three extra speaking engagements in addition to my normal class load.
I can admit: It’s been a lot.
I kept telling everyone, it’s all good. It’s just a lot.
I turned the last book in the 20th. And yesterday, my body told me to slow down. I had a funky headache that was a clear signal I needed to pause or my body would make me. In my 30s and even early 40s, I blew right by those signals. Now, I know it’s better to pause for a few hours than be forced to power through a week of feeling awful.
So last night, I didn’t grade. I didn’t write. After an hour curled up in bed, I took an hour to walk in a beautiful park, an hour to read, and then headed straight back to bed. Today I can think. So thank you for your grace. May we all learn to listen — I certainly have more growing to do. One friend told me “you gave yourself a whole two hours?” For me, that’s growth. Here’s to more growth!
How do you recharge when your body says enough?
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I have learned that I have to stop everything. The last 3 weeks my low to mid back has been swelling and pain horrific. Daily I live with 2 bulging disc’s, neuropathy etc. but not swelling. I Thank God for my healing and His wisdom and strength. Books help me so much!
Thank you for this post! It is a good reminder for everyone. We all tend to push ourselves too much. We need to seek rest and find balance. So thanks for the nudge!
So happy to see you took the time to rest.
When I need a break in the summer I sit on the patio with a cold drink and reading material and notice the quiet. Have you noticed how loud quiet can be? 😁
Being able to get out into nature is key for me recharge. It forces me to stop and take it all in. And to recognize God in all the things that surround me. That’s a bit harder to do in the winter – so taking time to sip a hot chocolate while curled up in a fuzzy blanket works well.
This post was so timely. I needed to listen to my body today too. Not easy. But I took a bath, read scriptures and a book.