This week I realized how important and vital self-care is. So Important! I did not realize this until Wednesday. After last month’s bout of depression, My Fantabulous Hubby decided I needed some pampering. So he bought me a spa day. Oh. My Goodness. I have never felt so relaxed or in body ever. And I feel so much better even two days later. I’m still relaxed and at peace. My mind is not racing like it normally does. I really have to prioritize taking care of myself. It makes such a huge difference.
My major epiphany is that I HAVE to take care better care of myself. Self-care has to be a priority, a top priority, and not something I do if I have time. Major, major revelations on how badly I treat my body, and that has to change.
I love how my friend Hiro put this on another friend, Havi’s, blog:
When the care and cultivation of your life is your first priority, your kingdom flourishes, far from the clash and clamor of marching bands, armies or shoes hurled in any direction. Flourishing kingdoms nourish the world around them, the way a river nourishes the land through which it flows–and are nourished by it in turn.
(If you’re wondering “Sovereignty? What the heck is she talking about?” Havi had two marvelous posts up on handling people who throw shoes at us, Destuckifying When the Shoes Are Flying and Sovereignty Casserole. And More About Shoes. If you’re not following both of these wonderful women, you really should be.
I’m preaching Sunday, and the sermon is going well. I’ve really enjoyed researching the Proverbs 31 Woman, and now I need to make some decisions and write the sermon. I’m not totally freaking out, which is the normal Friday procedure. So that’s good. Some of my musings on the Proverbs 31 Woman can be find here and here. After coffee hour Sunday, two psychologists in our church are going to be talking about spirituality and mental health (this is Mental Health Awareness month). I’m really looking forward to it.
I also said no to something I could have went to tomorrow, and I wanted to go to, but it was just going to crunch things up too much. So I said no, so I wouldn’t be freaking out about the sermon and how much I’m behind. Very glad I did that.
I started Charles de Lint’s new book last night, The Mystery of Grace. Charles is one of my favorite writers, and I am so happy for a new book. The man can weave worlds and characters like no one else.
I had a really good week, and I am thankful for it. How was your week?
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Hey Rachel. The sermon went great. I think it’s the best sermon, both prep and preaching, that I’ve done. God was definitely there. I plan on posting it, but it may be Tuesday before I do. The Hubby has taken off work tomorrow and we are going to see The Museum of Science and Industry. Yeah for Date Days!
Well, I went to the Prov. 31 post first…loved it. I hope your sermon went well! I can imagine it did!! You have so much great material for it.
Thank you Star and Melissa for stopping by. Oh my goodness how the to do list can get out of hand. I totally understand where you’re coming from. Minimum maintenance is a very important thing and I’m trying to figure out what mine is.
Yes! I would have to agree that taking care of yourself should be top priority! I sometimes forget that myself. I have 5 children and I’m an at home mom so I make it a point to at least get fully dressed and do my hair in the morning before I get started on my “to do” list. Otherwise, I would probably still be in my grubbies by the the time I pick up my kids from school. Minimum maintenance, but enough to make me feel like a human being. 🙂 Then there’s exercise, water, eating habits, quiet time etc…I could go on and on but I just met you, so I won’t! Maybe next coffee! 🙂
Have a great weekend. I really enjoy your writing.
-Melissa
YOu are right, but it is so hard to stop and take the time for self care when there are so many resposibilities competing for your time. I know it is best for everyone, but I feel so guilty that I often neglect it! Thanks for the reminder!