Taking Care of Me

Have you ever been so busy you didn’t take the time to eat?

It has been rare for me; (because I like to eat! 🙂 )

However, it has happened.

Or the other extreme happens to me too. I run to food to stay awake and get it all done. What about you?

The truth is sometimes life gets hectic. Now and then, the pressing needs of family or work can demand full attention, and it is tempting NOT to pause for self-care. However, in busy seasons, it is critical to permit yourself to refuel. Self-care is not selfish.

In the book of Mark, the disciples had been consumed with the needs of a crowd. They didn’t have time for lunch. Even with things undone, Jesus invited his disciples to pull away to a solitary place.

“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a solitary place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31-32 (NIV)

He created us and knows the human body needs rest.

So what does this mean in the 21st century? Here are some practical applications:

1. If you are a young mom, rest when your children sleep.

2. Get a babysitter and do something for yourself. If you can’t afford a babysitter, trade service with a good friend.

3. Work hard six days but pause and slow down one day a week. (Exodus 20:10)

4. Teach yourself to sleep even if something is left undone. (Psalm 3:4-5)

5. Drop perfection. It will drive you crazy.

6. Go for a walk, go shopping, read a book, and/or get a cup of specialty coffee.

7. Spend time with friends.

8. It is tiring and typical of me to say, “Get 8 hours of sleep, eat right, and exercise,” BUT it is so true.

9. Create healthy boundaries. Sometimes it is best to say no, so you can say yes.

10. Stay off of social media! (Haha, but only after you finish reading my post.)

11. Learn to journal and take time for prayer and meditation. (Matthew 11:28)

12. Listen to an uplifting podcast!

You can’t serve if you are running on empty.

So sweet friend, refuel so you can re-engage.

Renew your body, soul, and spirit. Even Jesus found time in the early parts of the morning. “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” Mark 1:35 (NIV)