CROSSING THE BRIDGE FROM OVERWHELMED TO CALM, ONE TINY STEP AT A TIME.

Sept 2022

Even if you don't thrive on a strict schedule, having routines can help in times of uncertainty and

stress.

Having routines is more than daily responsibilities, they include self-care. Routines help us

embrace the journey, rather than concentrating on goals. Creating routines that work for you will

help you form good habits and take better care of your physical and mental health and improve

your focus and productivity.

If you’re not used to self-care, it can easily begin with morning and evening routines. The

structure creates habits.

Any routine is best when it begins with God. Some people are wired to spend time with God the

first thing in the morning. I find spending time with God at night beneficial because my day is

done, and I’m not hurried. I still connect with Him throughout the day. My time for Bible

reading, meditation, and listening for His still small voice, is usually at night.

A typical morning routine may begin with your favorite beverage, while reading something

inspirational, or journaling gratitude. Next a little exercise or a brief walk. Then personal

care—shower, grooming and dressing for the day, eating something healthy, and checking your

daily list.

In the evening, your routine could include a delicious meal, TV or reading, taking medications,

and your personal before-bed hygiene, and prayer or a devotional. Then go to bed with a smile

on your face and hope in your heart.  

Implementing your favorite things regularly is self-care. One day this week, I was feeling

inundated with life. In the midst of the chaos, I made a cup of my favorite tea.

The process of grating fresh ginger into my favorite kettle, while the water is boiling, then

adding the cinnamon stick and fresh lemon and honey, made my tea beverage a ritual. The scent

of cinnamon, ginger and lemon began to calm me.

As I sipped and talked on the phone with my editor, I noticed muscles relaxing. This tiny bit of

self-care kept me going for several more hours. The unplanned moment caused me to reflect on

the soothing effects on my body, mind, and emotions.

If you paused and took five minutes to breathe deeply and stretch, or go outdoors for fresh air,

what would let you know this quick respite was not just good for, but right for you? Sometimes

it’s clarity of thought, sometimes it’s a burst of energy or motivation.

What we do know, is self-care is necessary for every aspect of our health: spiritual, mental, and physical.

Self-care means daily practicing that which fulfills your body, soul, and spirit. Eating nutritious

food, you enjoy, and gifting yourself with some form of movement fulfills your body.

Surrounding yourself with those who, “iron sharpens iron” enriches your soul. Those who

inspire and encourage you, bless your spirit.

“Love your neighbor as yourself.” Mark 12:31

Learning to care for yourself, will better-equip you to love your neighbor.

Next month will include loving yourself – and your neighbor—with fun, food, and fellowship.