6 Ways to Take Care of Yourself When You're Busy
Blogmas Day 18
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I’ll be the first to tell you that when I’m in a busy season, the last thing I want to do is anything related to “self-care.”
I’m sure you’ve experienced it, too. You’re in back-to-back meetings all day with a never-ending to-do list, unread texts that need responses, and a house that is in desperate need of cleaning.
Plus, if you have kids, I can only imagine the additional tasks and stressors on top of it all.
If you’re anything like me, the idea of sitting back and unwinding seems like a waste of time when there are so many things that NEED to be done!
As much as I love the Christmas season, it can get busy. Fast. We’re in crunch mode to “get everything done,” both at the office and at home.
So, why am I choosing now to talk about ways to incorporate self-care into your life?
“Really, Keri?” You may be thinking. “I do not have time for this.”
Preach, girl.
But as they say, you can’t pour from an empty cup, and this season of life can leave you feeling completely drained if you’re not careful.
If this sounds like you, too, you’re not alone. And don’t worry, these tips do not include “put on a face mask and eat some chocolate” because 1) that’s a given, and 2) I’ve tried that and it’s really not that helpful.
I’ve learned, especially in the last couple of weeks, that you cannot do it all on your own. You’re going to reach your limit, your breaking point, and it’s not pretty. Or healthy.
I know you’re busy — especially now — but I hope you can try at least one of these 6 ways to take care of yourself when you’re busy. Because it’s important, trust me.
{ONE} Read the Bible or listen to worship music.
When I am busy, I also get anxious. Sometimes, I have a hard time quieting my thoughts and thinking straight. I can get tunnel vision. No matter what, and especially in times of anxiousness, reading the Bible, praying, and listening to worship music calms me down. It reminds me that I’m not alone, that Jesus cares for me, and He is strong when I am weak.
One of my favorite verses that I repeat in times of busyness is “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:6-7
{TWO} Take breaks from your phone.
Scrolling. does. not. help. your. stress.
Take a break from your phone, your apps, your texts. If needed, put it on Do Not Disturb so you aren’t constantly bombarded with notifications. We do not realize how overstimulated we are and it can cause us even more stress.
{THREE} Drink lots of water.
I’m talking to myself here because when I’m busy, I’m terrible at drinking water. Water has so many benefits and to be honest, a dehydration-inflicted headache will not make you feel any less stressed. Trust me!
{FOUR} Don’t skip the workout.
It is cliche, but it’s true: A workout is a fantastic way to care for yourself in the busy season. It gets your heart pumping and increases your endorphins. It doesn’t need to be an hour-long HIIT workout for it to count. Go for a walk, do some squats, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Just move!
{FIVE} Call a loved one.
Sometimes it’s helpful to get a different perspective on your current situation, or sometimes it’s nice just to know that someone is in your corner and encouraging you along the way. In times of busyness, it can be easy to isolate yourself from others. However, I encourage you to call a loved one the next time you’re driving home, taking a walk, or folding laundry. A little connection with others goes a long way.
{SIX} Ask yourself, “Is this a priority right now?”
I admit, sometimes my busy season is self-inflicted. I over-commit and think I can handle all the things. It’s tempting to think everything needs to get done right this second, but does it actually? Take a look at your to-do list and ask yourself, “Is this actually a priority right now or can it wait?”