Some days more than others we need to listen to our inner voice. We need to listen to our bodies.  Today has been that day for me.

Many years ago I went through some major trauma and over the weekend I had something occur that brought all that back to the forefront of my mind. I was shaken, things I thought were for the most part healed inside of me came flooding back, no matter how hard I tried to ignore my feelings they were very persistent. I knew when I woke up Tuesday morning after some awful nightmares that I couldn’t ignore these feelings.

I learned the hard way many years ago that not talking about things, and thinking you could burry feelings does not work as a permanent solution. For me having these specific nightmares was a red flag. So I knew I needed to talk. I rang my bestie and let it all out. Then late last night I opened up to my husband and had a good cry. Last night I didn’t have  a nightmare, so I know I am on the right track to healing.

This morning though I feel completely deflated. Not my happy self, just flat, tired and drained. A good cry can be good, I needed it, but gosh it leaves me looking like a puffy eyed monster and feeling very tired. At work today I felt like I needed an extra layer of makeup, there are some benefits to being a woman! A good red lippy and fake it until I make it!

Tonight is all about a little self-care, I am going to listen to my tired mind! Some meditation, nice candles burning, and then curling up on the couch with fluffy socks, Netflix and some yummy Thai take out with my hubby. And of course chocolate and a cup of tea! I am switching of social media and my phone. Tonight I have nothing to give, but that is OK. I need to refill my own cup before I can give again.

The reason I am sharing this is because I know I am not alone! I know that so many of you reading this are having your own struggles, your own pain, hurt, loss or illness and I want you to know it is ok to take a moment for yourself! Life is hectic, I know! But we sometimes need to just slow down or stop. If we don’t listen to our minds, our bodies, our gut instincts then we will crash and burn. It is so important that you don’t ignore yourself and what you need. We try to be super human, but the world won’t fall apart if we make some time for ourselves. I know as a parent it can feel impossible, but we are a role model to our children and they need to know self-care is essential.

So if you are having a tough time please know you are not alone, and please remember to take care of yourself.

 

  • Call a friend.
  • Hug someone.
  • Play a fun card or board game with your child.
  • Take a walk.
  • Meditate.
  • Relax with a magazine or good book.
  • Binge of Netflix.
  • See a comedy at the movies.
  • Take a bubble bath.
  • Put on baggy PJ’s and get an early night.
  • Write in a diary.
  • Go for a swim.
  • Write a letter to the person who hurt you, then tear it up into tiny pieces.
  • Make a cup of tea.
  • Put on your favourite music and dance like no one’s watching.

 

Sending love your way!

 

Thank you for joining me, love Mackenzie xx