Self-care tip: If you are struggling, like me, maybe with burnout, maybe with anxiety or depression, or feeling overwhelmed or tired, a really helpful small step is to go outside for a walk. A walk through your neighbourhood or a nearby park is great. Even better, is to go to the countryside, the trees, the fresher air. Cris and I are fortunate to live close to trails, conservation areas, rivers and lakes. I do this not nearly often enough, but when I do, I am once again reminded of how much I enjoy it and how much it lifts my mood, even if only for a short while. One more thing to be grateful for.
If, for whatever reason, going outside is not possible right now, or you’re looking for another way to give yourself a break, here is another self-care tip:
Click on my face to hear my tip.
Hiking has definitely become one of my favourite types of exercise. I am setting in motion and working muscles that provide support but normally don’t have to do much work. I know this because 1-2 days after hiking through the woods, my calves are a bit sore. I don’t mind as I know it’s strengthening my muscles. Also, being among the trees, the gorgeous views, the sound of the breeze rustling through the leaves and the water rushing over the rocks lifts me up.
Not only am I taking care of myself physically, I am also taking steps, literally and figuratively, to improve my mental health. Those darling endorphins are swirling through my brain, improving my mood and helping me to have a more positive perspective on the responsibilities and commitments of my life.
Besides hiking along the escarpment and on the trails west and north of where I live, I have also hiked on the South Downs in southern England. I would love to go back there as well as to the top of England, just below the Scottish border, pausing along the way to drink in the gorgeous scenery, building a healthier body and mind while creating memories that make my heart smile.
What do you do, or are planning to do, to give yourself a break from your daily routine?
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