Plus, a friend in the counseling program wanted to know what I'm doing to be fully present, so I figured it was time to make a list.
+ exercise. Depending on Alan's schedule (and mine), I sometimes wake as early as 5:30. I use the Nike Training Club app to fit in at least one session most mornings (they range from 15 minutes to 45 minutes). The app includes videos to show you how to do each exercise and it tracks the minutes you've spent working out. I also schedule little sets (i.e. push-ups, sit ups) throughout the day by using bloom*.
Ab Burner and Butt Buster are my favorite 15-minute workouts--my body was grateful for them when I wore the little white dress for the wedding rehearsal ... even though there are no photos of me in that dress. :(
+ pray. I use the bloom* app to schedule prayer throughout the day. There's something about stopping whatever is going on in life to take time with the Creator that refreshes and restores. And instills a sense of discipline.
If you aren't into praying, try meditating on a proverb or mantra that speaks to you.
+ journal. In an effort to become more self-aware, I've started journaling more frequently. I keep my journal at my desk and set aside time to write--usually early in the morning, before the glow of the computer screen has overstimulated my mind.
There is a specific candle that I light when I want to pray, write, or relax. The scent is warm and cozy, and it illuminates the office when I light it first thing in the morning--the sun is barely up at that time. I associate lit candles with creativity and space (because I also clear my desk ... as much as possible).
+ or, light a lamp. We have two salt lamps. The larger of the two is in the office, and it has a USB cable. I plug it into my computer and enjoy the soft, iridescent light. It's especially pretty before the sun rises, and I also associate it with peace and calmness.
+ unplug. This is something that I need to work on. I try to complete as much work as possible before I turn on my computer, but because I use my phone to exercise, I frequently check email before I even get out of bed, and then my mind starts working on whatever tasks lie ahead. I also have a tendency to check my phone before I go to bed, which only gives me a headache.
In an effort to save electricity and encourage myself to do only what's necessary, I've started charging my phone only when the battery is at 20% or less, and the power strip in the office (to which the printer and computer are attached) is only plugged in when I really need to print something/my computer battery is at 20% or less.
Knowing that I'm limited by battery power has helped me prioritize my work and clear desk space.
+ enjoy Creation. What started as an effort to get the dogs outside with less hassle (and therefore get to class earlier) became a time for me to spend outside and play with the dogs. Spending time outdoors is good for you physically, spiritually, and mentally. I leave my phone in the house, unless I'm taking photos, which is another activity that has helped me learn to enjoy Creation.
By trying to find beauty in everything, I have come to appreciate the world around me a great deal more. Sometimes, I regret it when I don't have my camera or my phone with me, but it makes the moment that much more special--because once it's passed, it exists only in my memory. And God is everywhere.
We have a clay teapot used exclusively for oolong. In the mornings, I heat a kettle of fresh water while I warm the teapot and a cup under running water. Filling the teapot is a sensory experience, as I take the time to feel and smell the leaves before dropping them into the teapot and filling it with water. A hot pot of oolong is part of my morning experience.
+ give thanks. Along with praying and journaling, I like to spend time writing down a few things for which I am grateful each day. A recent list included:
+ time with my husband this morning
+ my husband made breakfast for me
+ made Wiener melange
+ outpouring of love and support from people interested in the baking outreach
+ a hot shower on a cold morning
+ Lindt chocolate for breakfast
+ no flies--the door is open and the dogs are free to roam the house and backyard
+ becoming "auntie"
+ fellowship and learning--discernment and teaching
+ find your music. I frequently play music throughout the day--Enya for studying and writing; Moriah Peters for everything else. Moriah Peters' lyrics (especially "Know Us By Our Love," "Well Done," and "Glow") really speak to my heart and refresh my soul. The words inspire me.
+ detox your body. At the end of tiring days, at the end of days when my mind is racing and I can't sleep, at the end of days when I just feel like pampering myself, I (or Alan, because he is an amazing husband) draw a bath with a couple of cups of Epsom salts. Candles are lit. The water is hot. There is a towel at the back of the tub so I don't get cold and my neck doesn't cramp. Music (or white noise) is playing. I have a good book (I read "The Soldier's Wife" in one night this way). And the bath draws out toxins while my body takes in the minerals. (Make sure you also have a glass of water nearby.)
Frequently, there is also a small papillon perched on a pile of towels, being scratched and rubbed the entire time, but if you don't have a papillon to keep you company, a good book or a journal or your thoughts will do just as well.
+ detox your soul. His words are the only words that matter.
So read them.
As we go through Community Bible Experience in Home Life Group, I've highlighted and picked out verses that speak to me. I wrote one of them on a Post-It and stuck it on my desk--"Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
Love this post, Honey! Seeing you growing in the Lord just thrills my heart. Love you!
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