I get tired of having people tell me to take care of myself, yet I know they are right. I especially get tired of hearing that mindfulness is the way. I think that we all have to find our own comfort zone and for me it’s writing. I have been journaling daily for five years and writing this blog for three years. For someone else it might be meditation, photography, painting, cooking, or gardening. Whatever it is that gives you that feeling of relief, of accomplishment, of joy, do it!

It can be challenging to make time to do anything for myself. I usually write while my husband takes his shower in the mornings. Thankfully he is able to manage alone but needs me close. I do help some when it’s time to get dressed, but that only takes a few minutes. Once he’s ready, I can get a little more time for myself while he rests or works on his computer. He takes afternoon naps which give me another great opportunity for me to sneak in some writing. Using any open time for things I like to do rather than chores makes my day go so much better.

I hope that all of us have something we do that gives us peace. It doesn’t have to be anything grand or time consuming, even just a cup of tea or coffee in a quiet spot can be relaxing. Writing serves as a release valve for tensions and a constant companion for me in both good and bad times. I want to encourage you to uncover your release and find time daily to do it. Be persistent. We all need those breaks and can only find them if we look.