A time for Nurturing

It snuck up on me, but at some point along the way, the things i was doing for enjoyment became stressful. I needed some time to just be, without any deadlines. More time outside, and more time in stillness.  

There’s a spot in our backyard that looks out into a ravine filled with trees. It’s a place where I can easily go and just soak in the quiet. I’ve been trying to find time most days to sit there awhile.

And i've been spending time by the water — taking in the view, and listening to the sound of the waves. I notice how the water relaxes me, and wonder why in all the years I’ve lived so close to it, I haven’t come here more.

I feel the pressure of things my mind tells me I should be doing, but know I need rest.

So I respond with more walks outside, more time enjoying the quiet by the trees, and by the water. Mostly I feel drawn to stillness. Giving myself permission to just be, challenging the thought that my worth is in what I produce.

I notice a difference in how I feel. More at peace. Less worried about everything that’s coming up and what I may or may not accomplish this year.

It’s been a few weeks now and I’m in the mood to paint again. Not to meet a deadline but for the love of it. I feel the difference. The peace I’ve been soaking in is coming with me.