Last week, I was completely overwhelmed.
I felt irritable and frustrated with my to do list and not knowing where to start.
Prioritizing my tasks felt like a chore because they all felt they needed to be done at once.
On top of that, I was being pulled to doing additional duties (which I volunteered for), regardless I felt burdened by taking on more responsibility.
As feelings of overwhelm waxed, my desire to do things that bring me joy and freedom waned.
This was a “normal” pattern I created for myself.
In my past, I would meet overwhelm with doing more and pushing through and saying yes to everything that seemed appealing.
Where that led me was waking up in the middle of the night with my brain swirling.
I was tired. When I felt tired, I didn’t have the energy to focus on my to do list. I didn’t have the energy to move.
My body was stagnant and my mind followed.
Change is possible and I made the choice to explore a different way because I learned how the body mind connection works.
I woke up earlier than I planned one morning, contemplating whether I go out for a run or set the snooze button.
That’s when the whisper said to me, what do I need for myself?
As I poked around that question, I began seeing how I can carve out space in my routine to give me more of what I needed and wanted.
Rather than being on autopilot to start my day, I started reading for a few minutes. I chose a book that appealed as an inspiration.
While the change in routine wasn’t the most comfortable, reading allowed me to slow down and absorb something which expanded my imagination.
Asking what overwhelm was trying to get across to me also helped to understand that while I can feel immovable, movement was what my body needed.
So I went out for my run.
What began happening for me is seeing when I create space for myself and honor what I know what I need, I’m able to feel more of a sense of relief from daily stress.
I’m able to connect in a more whole way with others.
I’ve rediscovered how much joy my dogs create with me everyday.
My Tuesday nights feel like Friday nights.
My creativity flows and my desire to cook is ignited.
Sleep comes effortlessly and I’m more rested than ever.
Stress is still there, but I have more capacity to handle what’s thrown at me because I take care of myself first.
Four Paws & You Dog Training 