Hi Lovelies!
I won’t waste your time with a bunch of introductory fluff because I’m tapped out and I’ve got nothing clever to write.
Basically, I struggle with transition and change, even change I know is coming and have been through many, many times before. Perhaps you do, too? Perhaps you have a nagging tension or anxiety as you consider the monumental shift that is about to take place from the school year to summer?
I have learned to care for myself in 4 key areas of my life with some very practical help.
I go into this in depth in the video, but the broad strokes are as follows, based on Luke 2:52, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Essentially Jesus grew in the following 4 areas and I utilize this structure of His personhood as a roadmap to self-care.
Social
Letting those close to me know of my low-grade depression
Clear out my calendar and lighten my load
Physical
Making sure I am soothing myself with smart choices
Being aware of my tendency to reach for substances such as caffeine, sugar and salt instead of things that will truly replenish me.
Spiritual
Choosing to press into Christ by playing the Bible and sermons (instead of digging into Scripture- I just don’t have the capacity for that during these low times but I still want to be close to Jesus).
Fasting and Praying
Making a worship or uplifting playlist that continues to keep me close to Jesus.
Intellectual/Mental/Emotional
Be gentle with myself and my internal monologue. I must construct the narrative that frames this transition and not allow it to be shaped by my tendency to condemn myself.
Those are the highlights! Hopefully you are joyfully anticipating the shift from school to summer, but just in case you are like me and struggle, I pray this provides you with some ideas!
Be gentle with yourself, mama! We need you to be okay!
STAY STRONG MAMA,
DAWN