Where do you create space?

I am often asked about my own practices. How do I take care of my own body and spirit?

Like you, my life is busy with so many things that demand my time. I am a mother of a small boy, taking care of a home, cooking and running my own practice. There are times when my self-care practices slide lower down the priority list than I want them to be. That said, I know that I can only do this kind of work well, and with joy when I move, breathe, journal and learn. So it has to be a priority for me. And I see how much better my life flows when I do these things.

But what gets in the way for most people? Time. Of course.

I wanted to share a story of how a recent mistake, became a mini-retreat that I have incorporated into my life.

A few Fridays ago, my son started to go to karate class on a Friday. On the date of the first class, in the fuddle of figuring out location, clothes, food and water, I forgot my phone. What a gift that became.

Parents are not allowed in the class, so I sat in the car for an hour. I had my bag with a book and a journal. It felt so good. I realised that this was going to become my weekly retreat. There is something so luscious, so luxurious, so peaceful about this hour in the car.

I reflect on the week.

I journal.

I dream.

I read.

I do not do an online food shop.

I do not call my mum.

I do not scroll through Instagram.

I do not ‘research’.

A scheduled hour away from my phone is heaven.

Quite by accident, this amazing space has been created, guilt-free. I’ve started to take my favourite blanket and a cinnamon tea. I look forward to it, knowing that if my self-care during the week has slipped, I have that sacred hour waiting for me.

I go into the weekend feeling relaxed and nurtured. I’m calmer and more giving for my family. I’ve taken something for me.

Is there something you long to have more time for, but can never quite manage it? Can you start small and regular? These tiny steps are the way I have worked for so many years and, like putting a few pounds into a savings account every week, the sum eventually feels so much greater than the parts.