Reboot and Refresh

Biscuits emerged as a staple comfort food for me during the pandemic era. Whenever I found myself stressed or overwhelmed, I’d turn to baking biscuits.

The act of baking not only occupied my mind but also provided a brief respite from the uncertainty swirling outside. It became my personal oasis, a moment of solace in a chaotic world. Surprisingly, I hadn’t initially recognized it as self-care, but as I savored the calmness it brought, I realized its significance in rejuvenating my spirits, akin to hitting a reset button for the day. 

As the world tentatively inches towards normalcy, my biscuit-making ritual has tapered off. However, I’m now focused on more intentional self-care practices. It’s not merely about nourishing myself properly or ensuring sufficient rest; it’s about actively checking in with my own well-being throughout the day.

Do I need a breather? Perhaps a lunch date with a friend to reignite that sense of connection?

Recognizing that human beings are inherently wired for social interaction, I’ve come to understand the value of these moments. No one told me when I started my company that loneliness would be a factor. It never occurred to me that when I left corporate America, I left behind a huge social network of interactions. I had to determine how to develop an entirely new way to interact with folks. 

Do you celebrate the relationships of those closest to you? Have you shared how important the key people in your life are with them? Celebrate your relationships. Click here to connect with me!

Through navigating various crises over the years, I’ve learned that self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Taking time for a coffee break to reflect, scheduling lunches with friends or colleagues, or simply going for a leisurely walk while listening to a podcast—these practices replenish the well, enabling me to better serve others without feeling physically drained or emotionally depleted. 

Recently, I stumbled upon Shawn A. Ginwright’s insights in “The Four Pivots,” particularly his notion that we’re in a constant struggle with rest. He says we are at war with rest. I resonate deeply with this concept. Just like a computer’s spinning wheel of buffering when overloaded, humans too experience moments of mental and physical exhaustion, leading to what I call ‘buffering.’ Self-care acts as a remedy, providing a sense of calm and restoration, essential for maintaining both mental and physical health.

The more I prioritize self-care, the more I find myself available and resilient for others. So, I’m curious—what are your go-to methods for rebooting and refreshing? Let’s share and inspire each other towards a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Want to learn more about prioritizing self-care? Check out my podcast: “Who Am I, Who Are You, Who Are We”

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Enjoy your journey of self-evaluation and exploration.

I hope it serves you well!