I think as moms we’ve all said it maybe one, two, three times (or a thousand!) before…”walk, don’t run!” But how many times do we practice what we preach? As I continue down this road on my journey to healing, I am reminded how important it is for me to “slow down” and make time to take care of myself. And it’s proven to be harder than it sounds…at least for me!
For me, I think it all started with the the realization that I wasn’t going to be able to run anymore (at least for this season of my life!) because of shear exhaustion. Then I made the decision to take a break from CrossFit because it was just taking too much of a toll on my body. Two things I truly enjoyed, but I knew my body was telling me to “slow down.” I knew that I didn’t want to give up exercise entirely, but it was definitely time to make some modifications! So, I started walking the same route I used to run and over time I didn’t miss the “rush” that a good run would give me, but instead began to enjoy my time alone and with the Lord…something running didn’t always allow me to do! Overall, I would say “slowing down” and changing up my pace was a blessing!
Then I faced the challenge to change up the pace for the rest of my day, which seemed to be a lot more daunting. I’m used to “running” all day long, sometimes forgetting to take a breath as I cook, clean, bandage, teach, disciple and nurture my little princesses. It’s tiring, to say the least…not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. I constantly think to myself, “how can I take care of my family, my body and ensure that my relationship with God remains first and foremost?”
I had to start with setting some goals, starting each day with the right perspective, and evaluating my priorities for the day. Do you have goals set for the day (week or month), is your perspective set on things above (that which are pleasing and honoring to the Lord), and is there anything you can eliminate in your day to keep your priorities in check?
I encourage you to make some goals for yourself…and have a plan to reach them! This will take some TIME, ENERGY, COMMITMENT and there will be TEMPTATIONS.
Here are a few of my goals:
- Be in the Word daily…I have my Bible and devotional set out on the nightstand so there is no excuse not to do it! This is what truly sets my perspective for the day and what a difference my day is if I don’t. Here are a few of my favorite books that help to keep me spiritually fit,
- Walk 3-4 days a week and bodyweight circuits 2 days a week, leaving myself 1-2 days of rest. These are a few great workouts that help to keep me physically fit (in the comfort of my living room!).
This one will get your heart pumping!
Need to get out of the house?…take the kiddos to the park and get a quick workout in while they play!
No excuses! Get your heart rate kick-started today in the comfort of your home and without any equipment! Or get some fresh air and head out on a walk…you just might be awed by God’s magnificence!
- Menu plan with the family each week…this ensures a fridge stocked with healthy food and less of a temptation for eating out (eating out has become a “treat” for our family!).
Here are some free downloads from www.cupcakediariesblog.com. You can also find more at www.infarrantlycreative.net.
- Make time for myself (still working on a “plan” to reach this goal!).
- Make time to spend with my hubs…once a month dates and date nights at home once a week.
I challenge you to set some reasonable goals for a week and then evaluate any changes that need to be made! Just remember…
Come along with me, be encouraged, get refreshed and refueled! And make No Excuses!
Blessings,
J’lene
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