Hey beautiful one,
This week’s episode is a short and sweet invitation to slow down.
At this time of year we often find ourselves pushing, instead of going into the hibernation our bodies deeply crave.
And, I want to remind you - and myself - that there is always time to step back and decide to take care of ourselves.
In the episode I reference a letter I wrote in 2020 on this topic, included for you below.
This year I’ve worked hard on the art of doing nothing, but it doesn’t come naturally. I recently found I had trouble relaxing, labelling myself as lazy, instead of leaning into the recuperation I needed. This was a deep-rooted belief from childhood, but bringing it into my consciousness enabled me to reframe it. I’m not lazy, I say to myself now, I’m taking time to replenish my energy. I find it amazing how quickly we can change our narratives, when we dig a little.
I also remember feeling there simply wasn’t time to rest. In a taxi in my twenties, late for a client meeting, the driver looked at me and said ‘Take a breath love, the world will be there in another minute.’ In the grip of anxiety, I couldn’t believe him. Something struck me then - the feeling that this was a deeply disturbing way to live. It was a catalyst for leaving my career.
If you have those voices, the ones that say ‘Shouldn’t you be…’ know that you are not alone. As Brené Brown’s says, “It takes courage to say yes to rest and play in a culture where exhaustion is seen as a status symbol.” We can choose to say yes, we have courage.
I hope it helps.
My voices like to tell me I’ll fall behind if I don’t keep going, that other people will get there first. I ask: get where? I’m right here, enjoying my life. Being in my life. There’s a lot to be said for doing very little. Nothing at all, if you can manage it.
You can view the original and get some bonus journal prompts by clicking here.
I hope this inspires you to take good care of yourself this week. Nothing matters more than you being ok.
Thanks for being here and being you.
All my love,
Jo
