Strength, Sensitivity, & Self-Care

I know it’s a huge buzz word these days, but truly, self-care has become a major theme in my life lately.

Having to juggle raising three young kids, working full-time in a professional career, managing a household on my own, battling constant and unrelenting daycare germs, and navigating myself through a great deal of shock/grief – it’s more than I ever imagined I’d be responsible for.

Everyone keeps telling me that I am so strong, but in reality, I do not feel strong at all. In fact, I feel extremely sensitive to EVERYTHING! I have realized over the last year that things around me impact me on a mental and physical level significantly more than they used to. On a good day, I’m sensitive. On my bad days, I’m downright fragile.  My therapist has taught me that this is very common for people who have dealt with trauma and extended periods of extremely escalated adrenaline and cortisol levels. Essentially, my body needs to recover and heal. My nerves are shot.  All of that being said, I’ve become acutely aware of what makes me feel good and what doesn’t. Below is my short list.

Things that significantly impact me in a negative way:

• Fast food.

• Watching negative or scary things on TV.

• Lack of sleep.

• Lack of alone time.

• Dark, dreary environments.

• Noise.

• Clutter.

• Gossip.

• Multi-Tasking.

• Too much sugar.

• Hearing arguing or swear words.

Things that significantly impact me in a positive way:

• Quality time with my boys (playing, cuddling, reading to them, & caring for them in general).

• PRAYER! (So much prayer) Getting in the Bible.

• Deep sleep.

• Daily time for reflection/inspiration.

• Fresh air & being in nature.

• Positive & inspirational messages.

• Bright, organized, uplifting environments.

• Quiet.

• Fresh, floral, & citrusy smells.

• Afternoon walks.

• Tea.

• Writing.

• Yoga or stretching before bed.

• Hot baths.

• Drinking lots of water.

• Fresh fruits & vegetables.

• Traveling & experiencing a change of scenery.

• Sharing how I’m feeling.

• The feeling that I’m learning and growing.

Overall, I’m leaning into how sensitive I currently am and accepting it. I’m really focused on self-care and curating my life with things that lift me up and put me in a mental and physical state of wellness. Right now, I do this because I can’t NOT this! I need to feel better and I need to heal. My body and mind seriously crave the positive things I’ve listed above. I need this for myself and for the three little boys who are counting on me every day, and so I can manage all that is on my plate. All that being said,  I’m learning and trying new things and following where God is leading me in order to bring more and more and more good into my life. An absolutely necessity - but also proving to be an interesting and rewarding adventure!

I’m learning so much, growing so much in faith, and its all for the good! Take care :)