Happy Feet, Happy Heart

My pedicured, little toes all sugared with sand were quite happy last week. The rest of me has been faring well, too. Partly because I’ve really embraced the whole “take care of yourself” thing (the pedicure proves it) as one major way to battle my recent bout of burnout. Oh, and last week’s jaunt to the beach with my family did wonders to lift my weary spirit (more on that at a later date).

I know a trip to the beach may not be possible for everyone. Even a pedicure might not be within your fingers’ or toes’ reach. But in just one week I’ve seen the positive impact small changes can have on my physical, mental, and spiritual health. Why not join me in my new balancing act? Unwind with Him, not with a tub of ice cream, the television or in the black hole of the Internet. Date your spouse. Call a friend. Better yet, visit a friend (not on her Facebook page but at her home or a cozy cafe). Fall asleep with your kids one night (or two or three). Read a novel (or start with a short story; I’ve found they’re much more manageable for busy moms). Soak up those last drops of the summer sunshine (it’s still hot and humid Down South). Go bumbling with your children (kids are wonderful bumblers, and it’s refreshing to just wander without direction or any real purpose). Be kind to yourself. And as a dear aunt recently reminded me try, try, try to find your self-worth not in your doing but in your being.