If you’re anything like most of the people I know, you wake up with an endless list of to-do’s for the day, go non-stop every minute and then fall into bed exhausted. Sometimes constant stress, a lack of sleep and no down time get the best of you. Taking a time out is more important than you could ever imagine.
By nature, I operate the same way-always on the go, doing something from morning until night and running myself ragged. Ask Scott-it’s rare for me to be able to sit down and watch an entire movie start to finish. The pace of America is unbelievable and we need to develop strategies to make sure we are recharging our batteries.
Normally when I go on a vacation, we are running from one place to another, trying to see all of our family and friends. By the time we get back to Texas, I’m ready for another vacation-one where I can do nothing and just take a break! This summer, I got my wish-we spent the second half of our trip back home at Scott’s family cabin in Wisconsin. What a gift! Imagine no cell phones, no internet and no distractions. It took me the first day or so to re-learn how to sit back, relax and just hang out. Day by day, I got better and better at it-it was the most serene, enjoyable experience I can remember having.
In this environment, thoughts of work, stress and what needed to get done when we got home didn’t even cross my mind. Ways to enjoy nature and enjoying each other’s company were at the forefront of this vacation at the cabin. One of my favorite parts was when Scott took me around the property on his four-wheeler and he was able to recall memory after memory of growing up and things that he had experienced there. I knew that this was completely unique and special, and loved every minute of it. It was awesome.
So what can you do to take a time out? You might not be able to get away on a vacation, but here are a few simple ideas to help you get started.
- Take a walk in nature
- Get a massage
- Meet someone for coffee
- Read a book or magazine (or your Kindle!)
- Turn the TV off and the computer and the cell phone and…
- Take a bubble bath
- Journal
- Call a close friend or family member
No matter which avenue you choose, taking a time out can positively impact your health, well-being and relationships. By rejuvenating your soul, you will have more energy, excitement about life and what’s ahead. Your enthusiasm will become contagious, and soon others will be asking you-what’s your secret?
*The information on this site is designed for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Thank you!
~by Kimberly Olson
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