My Week of De-stressing and Recharging!

I really believe that, for the most part, we have a lot of power in our lives.  That power comes from the everyday choices we make.  Last week, I chose to take a week off from my counseling practice.  I told my clients that I would be available if any emergencies came up, but otherwise I would see them for their next scheduled appointments the following week.

When I first went into private practice, I decided that it was very important to practice what I preach.  I am always talking with my clients about the need to manage their stress in healthy ways.  If I don’t want to be a hypocrite, I need to do the same!  It can be very stressful to work with people’s problems and traumas each day, so all therapists need to learn how to manage this stress in ways that keep them physically and emotionally healthy, and able to continue to do the work they love.  One way to do this is to take time off on a regular basis for rest and relaxation.  That’s just what I decided to do!

This last week was strictly reserved for family!  Our 17 yr. old granddaughter, who we love dearly, and who lives out of state, flew in for her first solo visit.  It was a wonderful time of bonding!  She’s bright, loving, and very sweet.  We thoroughly enjoyed our time with her.  At the end of the week, we all drove up to Templeton, CA, to meet her dad, who had just flown in.  It had been several months since we’d seen him, and it was great to reconnect.  We missed our other kids and grandkids, who weren’t able to come, but we know that it’s so hard to make everyone’s schedule work.

Lots of family live in the area, and many more drove in from different parts of the state.  We were there to attend the wedding of a family member.  It was a beautiful weekend, filled with love, laughter,and good food!  We spent time with old friends, from when we had lived in the area, and with family members from near and far.  The time went by too quickly, and before we knew it, it was time to say “goodbye” to everyone, and head back to Santa Barbara.  We miss all of our loved ones, but we have so many wonderful memories of our time spent together.

My emotional batteries are recharged, and I’m ready to put my energies back into my work.  As much as I love sitting with my clients, it was important for me to take a break.  It’s important for you too!  To avoid becoming stressed and worn out, no matter what you do for a living, be sure to create opportunities to rest and relax on a regular basis.  Choose to spend time doing things that make you happy, and being with people who make you feel loved.  I promise you won’t regret a minute!

Until next time,