A Time to Rest and Reset

We are in the second month of a new year and time for a bit of reflection, rest and reset here. A few months ago was an unraveling of sorts. An after surgery release from my surgeon and finishing physical therapy should have restored everything back to normal, right? Well, not exactly. Although I am doing great, there was an overwhelming expectation that “normal”, whatever that was, should have been on my doorstep. When the unlocking of the door happened with no restrictions…that’s when I knew I needed a bit of rest and reset.

Finding a place to do that was the next thing on my agenda. Even my husband said I needed to rest with no distractions.

Perhaps among your plans are changes in the new year or resolutions of sorts.

And, now into February, you may be reanalyzing those resolutions, right?

Adding a time to rest and reset may be among your list.

Just to rest and reset.

No deadlines.

No “look what needs to be tackled” here.

Simply a “let’s pause and let things go for a few days” was what was ordered.

Truthfully, most of the unmet expectations were simply created by me.

Isn’t that how often happens for us all…when the expectations before us are created by us?

Creative projects that had been planned; deadlines for writing; events to attend; closets to clean; zinnia seeds to harvest; garden beds to clean; plants to repot; seasonal decor changeout; season prep; and recipes to make to name a few.

What I felt I should or could be doing were just beyond reach.

The overwhelming sense that every decision was paramount needed to be calmed.

The overactive brain with unrealistic “to do” lists needed to be halted.

In my heart I knew that I needed “down” time. Which seemed quite ridiculous since most of the past months had been recuperating time.

But, really?

To get away in a cabin in a wooded state park–by myself–was welcome.

No frills. Simple and clean.

The TV never turned on. The craziness of life put away for a while.

A face full of lists and decisions removed.

Putting away the phone.

Sleeping, journaling, praying and resetting the goal.

And that happened.

Only out of the cabin to take in a bit of fresh air, sunshine and meals happened.

Hours of writing in my journal, quiet time, prayer, music and rest were the agenda for 3 days.

And the result?

More ease when I returned home. A continued need for stillness and quiet time.

You see?

We all have times when for everyone’s well being we need to take the time to pause. Rest. Reset.

Trust me.

It doesn’t have to be fancy. You don’t need entertainment to refill.

Even if it’s a chair on the back lawn or a walk in the woods or a stroll through a park.

Just a quiet stillness to calm your heart.

Even a simple break from meal prep was enjoyed.

But, goodness, if you plan to rest at this park, be prepared for portion control. This was the first night’s dinner. This is the way you order the fried chicken…no substitutions…out of the oven to the table like this. UNLESS you are in a group and then it’s all served in bowls and platters, family style. Oh, my!

Giant City Lodge’s food was amazing…but, smaller meals and less of them were sufficient after the introduction to caution.

Back at the cabin?

No computer. No social media. Not even a microwave or fridge to make you want to reheat leftovers allowed.

You see…

Never fear…everything will be there when you return.

So, if I am speaking to someone today?

Is it time for you to step away…take down time to rest and reset?

Especially with a new year in fast pursuit?

I realize that for many with heavy workloads, full houses filled with kids, homework, athletics and events that this may seem an unattainable goal.

But, I challenge you to make choices that will be better for you AND those you love and provide care in your home.

Look for ways and times to calm the noise in your head that prevents rest.

And, may I add…alone time? Not a girl trip where the noise adds more to the processing of life. At least, that’s what works best for me.

Extend yourself grace.

Some thoughts from stepping away…

• Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth! Psalms 46:10
• Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
• These things I have spoken to you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Do you need a rest and reset?

Think about how a rest and reset happens for you. What fills your tank? Renews your heart? Makes you the best version of yourself to give to others. Everyone needs the best you.

Then please take time to do that. Everyone will benefit from it.

A great way to reset and restart. After all spring is just a few weeks away. Before the season change adds activities to accelerate your life…pause, reflect…recharge.

Cheering for you on the sidelines.

Thank you for joining me here,