Post 7 - Balance

I haven't posted in a few months. I've taken the time to reflect and live more in the present. I'm proud of myself for working hard to change my approach to life, especially in recent months. Despite the challenges in my personal life and the world, I've managed to find balance. This doesn't mean everything is perfect, but I'm learning to cope even when things don't go as planned. One key tool that has helped me over the past five years is focusing on self-care. My therapist asks me at the end of each session: What are you going to do for self-care this week? It seems like a simple question, but in the actions that follow, I've discovered the magic in building a life filled with things that bring me joy.

Women often tend to put everyone else first, including their parents, husbands, children, and others. However, by intentionally dedicating time to activities that nourish your spirit, you can find a path to a life that provides renewal even during challenging times. I rediscovered the restorative power of walking in nature. I reconnected with my inner child through activities like coloring, painting, drawing, and solving puzzles. I resumed writing and started keeping journals filled with gratitude and positive affirmations. I utilized online tools to create my own journals using photographs from my walks. I also renewed my efforts to stay in touch with friends, and my latest passion has been soap-making! The point is that, even when faced with disappointment, I have intentionally developed interests in various areas of life, giving me a wealth of tools and activities to occupy my time and help me to move forward.

It's important to stop and allow ourselves to feel sadness, but it's also important to have balance in our lives. To know that there are wonderful people and things in our lives to uplift our spirits and to give us inspiration to keep going. I'm in the midst of researching and developing a business. If someone had asked me about this years ago, I would have never guessed it could be possible. I have dreams, amazing friends, and so many interests that make me feel excited about life. I don't have it all figured out; there are still roller coaster rides that take me up, down, and all around. I have no control over others and their actions. I still struggle with my own anxieties and fears. However, I am learning to find strength, courage, and hope in the midst of the unknown. I'm leaning into the power of surrender and accepting that I don't have a crystal ball that will give me all the answers, and that's okay. All I can really count on is right here, right now, and the present moment. This is where the power lies and the gift of choice. I can choose what I do and how I respond in this moment.

So, I will continue to choose me. I will commit to myself, I will show up, do the work, and celebrate the small victories. I will listen to the call of my inner voice, which points me in the direction of my truth. I will take risks and explore all things that bring me joy and fulfillment. Most importantly, I will continue to embrace the present moment, listening to my body and celebrating the balance that I have achieved.

Wishing you love, light, and a life filled with authenticit-E.

Estella