How to Practice Self Care & Avoid Burnout
It was a few years back I realized that I was driving my life like a professional car racer out on the tracks. I was speeding through life, over committed, and never slowing down. Unfortunately, it took me hitting burnout, exhaustion and illness to finally begin the process of slowing down more.
A great pastor in my local area introduced me to the book “The Spirit of The Disciplines.” From Dallas Willard. It speaks on so many topics, but I enjoyed the part about sabbath, silence and solitude.
Do you find yourself becoming weary, worn out and the effects of stress? If so, you are not alone.
Today, I am sharing some practical ways to practice rest, self care and a day of sabbath.
“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Genesis 2:2. From the beginning we see how God rested from all His work.
What happens if we don’t take time to sabbath, rest, and recharge?
We become weary physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
We are more likely to be short tempered, irritable, and less patient with those we care about. It can also lead to illness, lower immune system, and health issues. The mind and body cannot think as precise nor handle difficult and stressful situations. If we are weary and tired, we become an open door for the evil one. We are weaker to fight off temptations.
What is a Sabbath? Sabbath is an opportunity spend time God, with family, friends and doing activities that brings us joy. It is an opportunity to spend time God, family, friends and doing activities that brings us joy.
Do you practice Sabbath? If so what does it look like for you?
I love taking a day of Sabbath and rest on Saturday’s. For me Sabbath is usually time outdoors, activities and a fun meal. Recently, I have been incorporating more art, crafts and creativity into my practice. Some people Sabbath on Sunday but I believe it’s not the day of the week it’s the practice and discipline. Pick a day that works for you and your schedule.
Evaluate your schedule, situation, and even your family dynamics. Figure out what day works for you. I then encourage you to write out a list of what brings you fulfillment, rest, and joy. On your next day of Sabbath/rest day, pull out the list as a reminder of what you love to do and do it.
Here are 12 ideas that help you on your lifestyle wellness journey.
1. Turn on bright lights in your home: Just by turning on more lights in your home it gives you more energy.
2. Exercise: Set aside time and space in your schedule for exercise. If you feel unmotivated, call a friend a enjoy a workout together. I enjoy a group class at the gym as the seem to feed off the energy and music. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, boost energy, and also serotonin levels.
3. Eat a healthy diet with foods that include vitamin D & boost energy: These include salmon, eggs, sardines, sweet potatoes, beets, almonds, spinach, lots of greens, dark chocolate, healthy fruits like berries and bananas. Also, take vitamin D.
4. Enjoy some tea or drink of choice.
5. Listen To Upbeat Music: What is your favorite song or music you enjoy listening to? Music is known to increase joy, energy, and boosts serotonin levels. Turn up the music and do a little dance!
6. Get Fresh Air and Spend Time Outdoors: I encourage you to bundle up and take a nature walk outdoors
7. Surround yourself with positive people: Happy people help others feel more upbeat and bring energy.
8. Take vitamins especially Fish oil and Vitamin D
9. Decrease Screen Time and Unplug: Screen time can increase sources of sadness and depression. Not sure what to do instead? Make a list of all your favorite hobbies. Do you like to read, be creative, spend time with friends or even play a music instrument?
10. Try the Happy Therapy Light and Red Light Therapy! I just did Red Light Therapy for the first time. I loved it.
11. Plan a Vacation: Where do you want to travel to? Having a trip even if it is a local road trip gives you something to look forward to. I suggest somewhere warm and sunny!
12. Seek Professional Help: If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or suicidal thoughts, reach out for counseling assistance. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call 1-800-273-8255 Available 24 hours everyday!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13.
If you know someone who may benefit from these tips, I invite you to share with others!
Enjoy the purposeful time to rest, slow down, unplug from the noise and recharge.
Bible Verses: Matthew 11:28-30, Exodus 20:8-10, Mark 2:27
Books I enjoy regarding sabbath, slowing down and rest.
