Rest, Relax, Rejuvenate

By Moreen Torpy

Summer is a time to kick back and enjoy the season. For many of us, regular commitments have wound down, and while new ones may have begun, it’s important to find the time to feed our spirits with true relaxation. And, most of the time, the weather cooperates so we can enjoy being outside in nature too.

Throughout the rest of the year, we become so involved in extra-curricular activities that become over-commitment. We put our own needs aside, and that’s a sure road to burnout. By taking time every day to regenerate, we will refresh, restore and renew ourselves.

How can we take a break when there’s so much to do? The first step is to get rid of activity clutter. Withdraw from as many extra obligations as possible. Relaxing is impossible when we’re thinking about what we’ve promised to do next. Now, I don’t mean to stop caring for our families, just the extra, unnecessary activities.

When we’re busy giving to and caring for others without taking time to replenish ourselves, eventually we have nothing more to give. Once we reach this point, it’s even more difficult to climb out of our rut of over-commitment. We don’t have the energy to stop or to continue.

Some ideas for personal time could include going for a walk alone, reading for the sheer pleasure of it (not for business, or to study anything), gardening, a bubble bath with candles (try lavender for more relaxation!), folding laundry, or even contemplating the elements of water and fire. How about looking at clouds to see what image they represent, or sleeping until you can’t sleep any more–a sure way to know you’ve finally had enough rest! Sip your favorite cold drink or eat ice cream and just enjoy BE-ing.

By regularly scheduling personal time and spending some of it in solitude, we will become more clear about what’s important in life. This isn’t being selfish; it’s simply taking care of ourselves so we replenish our reserves to continue being the person we want to be for ourselves and those dear to us.

It’s also a good idea to plan for nothing time. This may sound like an oxymoron; however, being open to spontaneous invitations is also a way to relax.

So, let’s get organized and commit to ourselves by dedicating time this summer to rejuvenate our spirits. Then, continue this commitment throughout the year.

© De-Clutter Coach 2008

Moreen Torpy is the De-Clutter Coach, a Trained Professional Organizer, Author, and Speaker. Let’s Get Organized: 172 tiplets to simplify life is her first published work. See http://www.decluttercoach.ca to subscribe to Let’s Get Organized, her monthly e-zine and purchase the booklet.

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