Hello friends!

I know that time, and schedules, and planning have all been turned upside down in this very strange year! We’ve talked a lot, here in the blog about shifting our expectations, being resilient, and how to be understanding in a time of uncertainty. How often, though, do we apply this to ourselves?

Without a doubt, no matter who you are or where you live, this year has presented unique challenges and difficulties. I want to remind you this week, that even during hard times or sad times, it’s important to cut yourself some slack, show yourself some grace, and give yourself a break.

Now more than ever, it’s crucial for us to have the awareness to know when to stop, when to give ourselves a pause, and when to take a rest, in order to reset and regroup.

It’s usually in our nature to propel through the uncomfortable and the uncertain, to avoid the feelings and unpleasantries, but I promise you, the time you give back to yourself will provide so much back for you. At first our minds will go wild, wanting us to believe that this quieted space is a bad thing, often thinking the following:

What will happen in that space of nothingness?

Will I let people down?

Will I fall behind? Will someone else surpass me?

Will I be forgotten?

Will I lose my creative flow?

Will I not start back up again?

Will I fail?

These are some of the questions I thought to myself when resisting taking a break. And the answer to all of them is a simple and meaningful no.

Taking breaks, creating spaces, taking pauses in life are a crucial, critical part of our self-care and self-preservation practices. Taking a moment of pause before starting again is regeneration and renewal. Giving yourself the gift of time and space cultivates creativity. Personal time solidifies the strong foundation we have from within to shine as bright as we can.

Taking breaks doesn’t always come easy to us, so I want to gently and confidently remind you that it’s okay. Breaks are allowed, and often it is necessary to pause, take a break, and start again.

Breaks can come in many forms and circumstances, and if you’re feeling called to pause, I hope you honor it, and remember…

…it’s okay to take a break from your work

…it’s okay to take a break from a relationship

…it’s okay to take space from someone you love

…it’s okay to take a break from your creative passions

…it’s okay to take a break during busy days

…it’s okay to take a break from your physical routine and diet

…it’s okay to take a break from your social calendar

…it’s okay to take a break and just be

This week, I commit to taking a break from stressing about my writing. If you feel called to share, what will you consciously take a break from this week?

Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments!

xo, Michelle

Michelle Maros is Peaceful Mind Peaceful Life's Creative Director and resident writer. She has a degree in Journalism from Indiana University and is also a certified holistic health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and registered yoga teacher with trainings with Anuttara Yoga Shala and Strala Yoga. Michelle has a deep desire to help people find happiness in all areas of their lives, and truly believes the Peaceful Mind Peaceful Life movement will bring lasting change to the world. Michelle splits her time between Florida and New York City and loves connecting with people from all over the world. If you'd like to contact her, she can be reached at 

Source Here