When we are consumed with fear and worry it can be hard to think about anything else. If we aren’t careful that fear and worry can consume the whole of us and we aren’t left with anything else. Amidst the uncertainty and chaos on the world around us, I want to gently remind you that you need to remember to take care of yourself.
You are busy coordinating the schedules, likely at home also homeschooling your kids while schools are closed, trying to keep up with laundry and dishes. Don’t forget to grocery shop. We know your list is long. We know it’s all important. But, hear me. You are important too.
Amidst the crazy, here are a few ways that you can remember to take care of yourself that will help you keep your sanity!
- Step away for a coffee break. My personal favorite is Woods Coffee. The atmosphere is so warm and inviting. It will cheer you right up, and calm your nerves. Order your favorite drink and just let the anxiety melt away. Even if you only have 30 minutes to enjoy, take the time.
- Read a new book. Here are 5 of my recent favorite authors that you may enjoy!
- If you like a good mystery try Ellie Alexander. I love her books set in Leavenworth, WA and Oregon. Cozy, easy reads to help your mind relax.
- Dee Henderson – If you like a more crime oriented mystery, these are suspenseful but I love the character development in them as well.
- James L. Rubert – I love the themes in his books. They are deep and insightful with rich characters. There hasn’t been a book he’s written I haven’t loved!
- Kristen Heitzmann – She has an array of books I have loved.
- Jamie Jo Wright – she weaves together the past and the future with incredible storytelling.
- If you simply cannot get away from your house, close yourself in the bathroom for 5 minutes and breathe. Take a moment to practice the pause. Close your eyes, say a prayer and just be.
- Stock up on the thing you love. It might be peanut butter cups, or ice cream, or some other fun snack. Maybe you love broccoli or fruit loops or some other thing. Make sure you have some, hide them under your bed, and only eat them when the kids go to bed. It’s yours and you don’t have to share.
- Call a friend. Facetime a friend. If you need some relief, ask for it. Or maybe you just need a listening ear. Remember it is okay to ask for help.
Mom, you are normally juggling a lot and now even more is being added to your plate. You’ve got this. God created you for such a time as this and you will get through this stronger than you began.
Woods Coffee is ready to help you to care of yourself. Their mission of serving others well and making a difference in the lives of each of their guests, is at the core of who they are. Always family-friendly, always great coffee, and the perfect place for great conversation! They have locations in Bellevue, Bellingham, Blaine, Bothell, Burlington, Edmonds, Ferndale, Lynden, and Mount Vernon.
