Me and my pet squirrel “Marcus” writing in our happy place
I write about energy – whether that is the electricity we use in our homes or the energy we exert when we are physically active. As the Residential Energy Program Manager for a County agency and a part time Aerobics and Laughter instructor, it is all I think about. So much so that if you look closely, you may seem steam coming out of my ears. That is because I am always doing something. In fact, I have a problem saying no. I like to be helpful, I like to feel like part of a team, and I like to be productive – all of these things make it difficult to wind down. Which is why during this unprecedented (haven’t you heard that word a lot) time – I have had the opportunity to reflect and dare I say…relax?!?!
Another view of my happy place
Oh yes, RELAX!! You would think in the world of outreach and education that this is a four letter word but it isn’t. It is necessary, it is essential, and it is something that we should all take the time to do. I have to admit, it took a pandemic to get me to slow down, to take time for myself, and to reflect on what I want to contribute to the world. I know not everyone has this luxury but it is really important. I remember eight months ago (feels like an eternity) when I was taking a girls trip with my mom and aunt to Mexico – the flight attendant came over the intercom to remind us to “put on our own mask first before we help others.” Well dang, if I can’t breathe, what good am I gonna be to my mom or aunt if the plane malfunctions? NONE! You may have also heard someone tell you to “fill your own cup first” because you can’t serve anyone else if you are not nourished. These are both truisms. And, I just love the fact that the dictionary definition of truism is “a statement that is obviously true and says nothing new or interesting.”
Find your happy place!
That said, taking care of yourself is imperative. Period. I didn’t think it was true until I started writing in a journal every day – every single day!!! I should preface this by telling you that I read the book, The Artist’s Way in April, and it has literally changed my life. One of the first things the book asks you to do is to write three pages everyday, as soon as you wake up. Now, I have to admit, sometimes it is NOT right when I wake up but I do write every day. I write every day to release things that are bothering me. I write every day to find out what I am really thinking. I write every day because it brings me clarity. I write every day because it gives me 15-30 minutes of alone time. It has been liberating and it has allowed me to RELAX.
I relax not only because I am taking time to reflect and be by myself but also because where I choose to write has become my HAPPY PLACE. Your happy place may look a lot different than mine but I highly encourage you to find a place that makes your heart sing – that takes the tension out of your shoulders – that puts a smile on your face. Are you ready to find your happy place?
For breakfast, I had homemade sourdough bread with homemade dill cream cheese and cucumbers and broccoli – I eat what I want!
Author: @larissaboost7