to thine own self be kind

Through all of my back problems and migraines, one of the things that I have had to learn to do for myself is how to rest. If I allow myself to rest I have more energy and stamina to live life. To work, to do things with friends, to be part of my church family, to go to IndyCar races and family gatherings. And you know what? I don't apologize for it anymore - not to others or to myself. It is easy to beat yourself up and call yourself lazy and put pressure on yourself to do, do, do, and go, go, go. Sometimes you need to just be. I think in the past year I have gotten to a more peaceful place with myself where I have decided to listen to my body and be easier on myself. If some things in my life don't get done ... OH WELL.

This means my bed and I have a wonderful relationship. When I'm in/on my bed I'm not always sleeping. Sometimes I'm just laying on my side, knees bent, low back arched, slightly propped against some pillows watching TV. Other times I lay on my back on top of an ice pack with me knees bent - watching TV, reading, or doing something on my laptop. I let my muscles relax, spread out, and chill.

It feels SO good to have taken the pressure off of myself. I don't know about you, but I am my toughest critic. While, yes, it is important to hold ourselves to standards and not shirk responsibility, it is a good thing to be kind to oneself. Stock the bedside table with a big glass of water, a favorite lip balm, a TV remote. Keep good books, magazines, a journal and a favorite pencil or pen within reach. Load up the bed with fantastic pillows, linens, and blankets...then tell your muscles to let go. Be kind to your mind, body, and soul.