Are you feeling stressed out and exhausted? Do you feel like you never have enough energy to pull through your day? Do you feel bombarded by everyone and everything?
I can relate to that feeling of just being at my wits end. Most of us spend our days doing mindless activities. Often forgetting to take time for ourselves. We are usually busy scurrying around and feeling like there is just not enough time in the day. Frustration seems to be the recurring theme, with exhaustion leading the charge.
Some time ago, I discovered that I was a natural giver, not knowing when to say no or create boundaries. I recall being in a session with my coach at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, where I had, what had to be one of those “Ah-ah “ moments.
She began to dig deep into why I felt I had to give without receiving. The light came on when I realized that I had not been giving anything to me.
She reminded me that I needed to set clear boundaries, learn when to say no without feeling guilty and most importantly to spend quality time with myself “Me time”. Her definition of “Me time” was simply to be myself, preferably in a reflective and meditative space. I knew the moment she explained it that it was something I desperately needed.
Since that day in our session, I have come to truly understand essence of “Me time”. It is not simply waiting for my vacation time, or going to a spa, don’t get me wrong these are great activities, but “Me Time” is a little more than that.
It’s a time when one truly shut down and goes on the inside. Allowing for the mind, body and the spirit to reconnect. Releasing all the unwanted energies, issues, baggage, hurt, pain, rejection and just simply being. “Me time” involves you just letting go and being in a space of nothingness.
I have found that when I have posed this challenge to many of my own clients, they find it difficult, as it means they have to give back to themselves. Though “me time” is a very nurturing loving process, it is like a detox, the first parts of it can be rough and painful. Simply because when we pause things we may not have truly dealt with may confront us. However, once you get over the initial hump it is quite relaxing and allows for real reflection and oneness.
Persons often confuse “Me Time” with downtime. They are quite similar but one involves solitude, what I like to call, flying solo. Getting a massage, going to the movies etc, would be classified as down time. However, “Me time” would be lazing around the house, in a lounge chair, bed, or even under your favorite tree, just simply being. The key thing to note is that “Me Time” doesn’t include anyone else except you and your thoughts.
As a Health and Lifestyle Coach, I have discovered that persons who rarely get “Me time” often suffer from one of the following illnesses, anxiety, depression, digestive issues (e.g. acid reflux), high blood pressure, sleep deprivation and the list goes on. These health issues are commonly associated with the body being under tremendous stress. My personal mantra is I prefer to meditate rather than medicate.
Would you drive your car on Empty? Would you put off getting gas even when the needle indicates empty?
Likewise, when exhaustion sets in, over extension of self and you feel totally overwhelmed, why would you put off your “Me time”?
There are many wonderful benefits to “Me time” but I will allow you to experience it for yourself.
Here are a few ideas to get you started on your “ME TIME”
- Set aside at least 15 minutes daily
- Set it in your calendar like you would any important meeting
- Turn of all electronics during this time (no cellphones, laptop, tvs..etc)
- Identify a quiet place to have your me time
- Time in nature is an excellent option (sit under a tree, listen to the birds, watch the clouds), if weather permits
- Use of relaxing music is optional
- A soak in your bath tub
- Lay in bed, hammock or sit in your favorite chair…
Can you think of what’s standing between you and your “Me time”?
If you are having difficulty in getting into that space, it may be prudent to get the help of a professional to start you on your journey. Don’t wait until you are on empty.
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Rese Young is a Health and Lifestyle Coach, Speaker, and writer, who works primarily with Corporate Companies and Individual on Life balancing techniques, providing mind, body and spiritual guidance. To book a session with Rese: email: info@mylivinghealthy.com, Could one conversation change your life?
You too could become a Health Coach, just ask how.