Today I want to try something different with my blog. I want to share the things that might help others keep there sanity because these are what I've realized help me keep mine.
1. Take care of your body
I've realized when I do the simple things like eating a small breakfast or taking the stairs rather than the elevator, I don't entirely want to rip my hair out. There is nothing more annoying than an alarm on a saturday but the phrase "early to bed early to rise" is actually really wise. As a society we have a tendency to stay up late and wake up early. Here's a friendly reminder, YOUR BODY NEEDS SLEEP! Go to sleep at an appropriate time for you and make sure you set the alarm. Even being pregnant, I feel a whole lot better when I set my alarm to wake me up than when I just sleep in for no reason.
Replace the cupcake with a handful of berries. If you want sugar, eat sugar! But try to make it natural sugars not artificial.
2. Don't try to do everything on your own
I struggle with this concept on a daily basis. I do not accept service like I should and I don't know how to efficiently ask for help. I was raised in a home where we were always looking for ways to help but hardly ever received it because we didn't ask. I have a very close family and we are awesome! But, no matter how awesome anyone is, we have to know when to ask for help.
3. Keep in contact with old friends
Trust me, as a military brat I know how hard it is to keep in touch with old friends. There even comes a point where you wonder what would happen if you ran into your old friends because it has been so long. Will it be just like old times or will the time that has passed left you with nothing in common? For the sake of your sanity, don't let that happen. Reach out with a simple "Hi, How are you?" every now and again. There is nothing more important than keeping healthy relationships. It will ensure that you don't fall into the slumps of loneliness.
4. Share your feelings
Whether it be with your spouse, a family member or even a coworker, find someone that you can confide in. There is nothing like letting the stress leave your mind simply from saying it out loud. If you have a hard time saying what you feel to people or don't want to be judged then write it down in a journal. You can even say it out loud where no one can hear. There's nothing like talking to yourself to help you stay sane!!
5. Find a place you can completely relax
Ideally, every home would be a safe haven but if there are things in your home that stress you out then you'll have to look somewhere else. It doesn't have to be far and it doesn't even have to be outside the walls of your home. Maybe it's in a certain room where you can be alone for just a few minutes. Perhaps it's in your backyard. My personal favorite is in the shower. It's my place where I lose track of time and let my mind run free.
6. Remember it's a state of mind
I received counsel some time ago that helped me change my state of mind and has drawn me to this conclusion, "Life's always easier when you're optimistic but it's not always as easy to BE optimistic." Focus on things that you can be optimistic about. Take time to think about your blessings and clear your mind of the things that bring you down. It may seem cheesy but meditation actually helps your soul. You don't have to sit cross-legged on the floor with perfect posture, just let your body relax and really feel your body. I like to focus on my breathing and after I'm tired of counting them, I'll think of something that makes me feel good. Dream about the beach or picture yourself overcoming your fears. There is nothing you can't do when you empower yourself through your own thoughts.
Share your feedback and share with your friends!
Ani
