LET’S GROW

I never used to put much emphasis on taking breaks from self-improvement. To me, I could ALWAYS be working to improve. While that may be true…what kind of life is that? I realized that if I’m always striving to become an improved person, I never get to enjoy the wonderful person I am now. Basically, it’s important to stop every so often to smell the flowers.

For a long time I looked at doing anything that wasn’t furthering my career in some way as a waste of time. This led me to burn out more times than I can count. My thought afterwards would always be, “Oh, I will just sleep more and that will be my recovery.” To be clear, sleeping is VERY important, but I felt like I was just sleeping to work. This felt unfulfilling.

I was in my therapy session talking about this when my therapist asked me what I did for fun…and I was blank.

He explained it’s good to rest and it’s good to work on yourself, but doing things that bring you joy is also important. This is when I learned the concept of active recovery.

What is active recovery?

It’s giving your brain a break from “the work” and doing something for the pure joy of doing it. Don’t get me wrong, I love a nap or a Netflix veg out sesh, but I have found real fulfillment in active recovery. Here are some examples of what I do.

Puzzles - I never thought I would be into puzzles, but it tickles my brain. I love organizing the pieces by similar colors into the drawers of my puzzle table. It’s fun to do with other people as well.

Baking - My dad is an incredible baker and taught me the whole process. My favorite is his signature sourdough loaf (that you have probably seen me crunch on Instagram reels). It takes two days and the lengthy process makes it that much more fulfilling

Disc Golf - Let me be clear, I am NOT good at this. I spend a lot of time searching for said disc. It does get me out and about and walking. Who wants to play with me?

I would love to hear what you all do. Make sure you take time to enjoy the wonderful person you are.