Daily self-care.

I was recently talking to a friend who I am taking an art class with about why she picked to take the class at this time of year. She commented on how kids have it easy, they have exercise and art built into their lives each and every day. This is something that I had not actually thought about but it is true. Kids have it easy, their daily movement and art is built into their schedule. However, as adults, we have work but have to schedule in movement and art OUTSIDE of our work schedule. This really hit home that we have to work that much harder to get our daily self-care into our routine. She reminded me that she tries to find new ways to be creative and not just go home after work and put on pajamas at 5pm. She noted that it is harder to keep busy and mentally active, especially in the winter.

For myself, I have found during the busy winter season, scheduling a class ensures that I have time to focus or do something for myself. Last winter, I enjoyed an oil painting class at the local art center and this winter I am completing a watercolor meditation class. I will be honest that with the cold, snowy weather in Ohio, sometimes it is harder to pack up my belongings and head to class. However, I know that I have dedicated time to do something I really enjoy, and I owe myself the opportunity to relax no matter how long my to-do list actually is. I plan to keep taking a class in December as a way to just slow down.

What are you doing to make time for yourself? How are you fitting in daily self-care? Have you previously taken the time to give YOURSELF the gift of time for yourself? If not, I challenge you to start now.