I have a lot going on in my life right now. It’s amazing how weeks or months can pass by so smoothly, and then so many things can change in a week. Some of what is happening is exciting, and some of it is downright stressful.
The other night I had trouble falling asleep. I found myself overwhelmed by my thoughts so I decided to breathe very slowly and deeply. It sounds really simple, but when we are stressed we tend to breathe quickly in our upper chest. If you breathe deeply in your belly, it can really help ground you and get rid of any anxiety in just a few breaths. Thank god for yoga!
I also thought about the serenity prayer. I am not religious, but I agree wholeheartedly with these words. They help organize my thoughts, and remind me that at the end of the day, I am only responsible for myself, and the rest is up to others, and chance. In the end, things usually work out, even if it can seem impossible as we are going through big changes. We may not get what we want, or what we thought we wanted, but somehow we can grow and change. Hopefully for the better, if we can remain open to new possibilities.
Stress is caused by worrying about things we cannot control. This is something that I have to constantly remind myself of. I cannot control everything. (What? Thought the type A in me!) It’s actually a big relief when I really get what that means.
How do you roll with life, embrace it, and do what you need to do? One day at a time. Prioritize, focus on what you can do, handle yourself with care, and remember that at the end of the day, it’s just life. Take it easy on yourself! You are only human, and so is everyone else. Everything is going to be alright.
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.
What do you do to fall asleep in troubled times?
xx
the cozy sweater café 
wow loved this, thank u! xox
I’m glad. 🙂
Angelique! Big hugs to you- Garbarino Acres is open to you if you need to “get away” and “be sick” and “stay home”!
In my more delicate times, I make sure to cross off the things I NEED to do to make a good day, in a gentle way. For me that’s exercise, writing, painting, contact with another human- that’s the basics for me.
A few weeks ago, I went to the extent of taking 48 hours off of life, I ended up taking an illustration class on Creative Bug, walking the dog, taking an hour long bath, getting to bed before 9h30pm. It was SO RESTORATIVE.
I read yesterday a quote that went something along the lines of “you forget the fear but always remember the surrender” and it made me think of those times in my life when I surrendered to the chaos and how peaceful I felt afterwards.
Being a grown up is HARD! But you are loved and an inspiration to many
xoxox
Wow! You should blog – LOL. The surrender, yes!!! I love the 48 hours off idea. I would love to have a paint party/a kitchen discussion (I am pro open shelving)/philosophical chat…so I would love to visit you and discuss life. Missing you Em, and love your inspiring self. Xx
I’ve been trying to lean into the vulnerability of it all, to accept that I am sensitive and flawed and make mistakes and that as cliche as it sounds, tomorrow can be a new day. I have also learned to surround myself with people who accept me as I am and make me laugh.
Sending love and laughter your way, good friend!
xoxoxoxoxo
Thank you! Yes, surrounding yourself with real friends who make you laugh is key!! Xx
Thinking of you and glad you are still able to breathe. I am here for whatever you need.
Xoxo
Serenity Prayer has been with me since I was a kid. Recently I started really thinking about the idea of accepting what I can not change and what that really means according to me. Learning acceptance in many different areas of my life is a challenge that reiterates itself — its a lesson that I continue to re-learn frequently. A big part is letting go and letting others live their lives while I live mine. But I am slowly feeling calmer and wiser about it! Maybe? Haha!
Another thing I’ve discovered that I like recently is YOGA. Love it. Meditative, Spiritual, Physical. I can’t believe I shunned it for as long as I have.
And finally! I heard this interesting podcast with Ellen Burstyn (it’s on a show called “Death Sex and Money”) and she talks about how she takes “Should-less” days, where she does what she wants to do because she can, not because she should — love this idea.
Great post, looking forward to hanging out Live real soon!
Thank you for the thoughtful share Annabelle. I love all these changes you are going through, like a butterfly!
I love the should-less day…must discuss this further!