Learning to go with the Flow

Let's face it, I am a get it done type of girl, impatient since birth, and struggle with sitting in one spot for long. I promised myself I would slow down a bit this summer, or at least try and learn how. Believe it or not, this is a bit stressful for me, but as I tell my clients you have to listen to your body, and I realized it was time to take my own advice.

I have spent the last few years stressed out and going against the flow, ready to do battle at the drop of the hat, but recently I've just decided to let things play out instead of make them happen. With that being said, I also found my voice again and have started drawing and enforcing those boundary lines we all need.

I went from a lifestyle/career of severe boredom with bursts of craziness to controlled chaos at all times. It's been an adventure and a lesson in patience. I have had to learn, especially the last few months to go with the flow of changes, and to focus on myself more, especially learning to "rest" when I need it. We all have to realize that it's ok to take a full rest day now and then, especially when you've been pushing yourself to the limits. Those that know me understand that pushing myself to the limit is all I've got generally.

 I coach track and field in the spring and winter/summer swim. I mainly work with the developmental group in swimming, think 5-8 year old kids, and track I focus on 6-8th graders. Most of my days are spent with kids ranging from 5 years old to 18 year old students when I am teaching High School. While I enjoy it, it can be draining mentally and emotionally. The kids have been good for me, even on the rough days, I've learned again that it's ok to relax a bit, or as much as I can.

I've also started trail running and hiking, which helps my brain to shut off, not an easy task. As we grow older we find new hobbies, or they find us. Instead of spending time at the gym working out I am back in my garden, working around and with my horses, and general upkeep that goes along with having livestock (horses, donkeys, chickens, and peacocks). On days I am tired and sore I practice Yoga, or resting.

We all reach a time in our lives where we need to reevaluate what we are doing and see if it's working for us, and if it 's not then let it go. As for me this summer, I am embracing lazy Sundays, and time with my gardens and animals, because that is how I recharge and allow myself to go with the flow.