I didn’t realize until earlier this evening, but:
I’m tired.
Not just long day tired.
Exhausted of resources tired.
Emotionally. Spiritually. Physically.
Tired.
A year and five months ago, I packed up my car & moved my life 1300 miles away, in answer to God’s call – a move I knew from the start was temporary.
For the last few weeks, I’ve felt this desperate pull to rush it. Get out of here. On to the next thing.
Because I am tired.
I have not been faithful to myself & providing self-care.
In my chosen field, it’s no wonder my Clinical Supervisor emphasizes self-care as part of our evaluation of ability to do the job.
And, I’ve been neglecting the biggest area of self-care in my life.
My greatest source of self-care is my spirituality. I cannot let that go.
After all, my soul, the deepest parts of me, finds the greatest rest in God alone:
“Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
my hope comes from Him.”
-Psalm 62:5
I say kudos to anyone who can do this job without any kind of self-care routine.
Because, I absolutely cannot.
I will run out of life.
Run out of resources.
I get restless.
Get ahead of myself and my plan.
Get ahead of God’s plan.
I suffer in the areas where it matters most…this likely makes me less effective, less affective, with clients.
So, tonight, I put away the studying for the biggest test of my life in order to take a little time to re-focus & care for my soul.
If you have been neglecting self-care, or have no idea what works for you to recharge your soul & your life force, let me offer some of my favorite ideas below (you can also check out my self-care pinterest board):
- Spiritual activities
- Music
- Painting/sketching
- Writing
- Reading
- Drinking Water
- Chocolate
- Walking
- Cleaning/organizing
- Therapy, when needed (yes, even mental health professionals need someone from time to time)
So, it’s time to take my soul seriously. Finding my center once again.
Resting in the arms of my Abba.
I’ll leave you with the song that always kick-starts the process:
Still – Hillsong Worship – their live video is here.
What are some ways you make sure to take care of yourself & your soul? Share below.
Author Candice Jenee’ 