Breathe and Reboot

I really don't like not having anything to do. In work, I'm usually really busy and it doesn't often make me feel negative, I enjoy having challenges to face and getting stuff done. It's great that this sort of lifestyle doesn't obviously bother me, but it's probably one of the reasons why I haven't addressed having the right kind of 'down time' before. Because I didn't consider myself as needing it.

I think it's safe to say that everyone definitely needs it. Although I'm coping fine in work, after a fortnight of a fairly solid new routine involving mindfulness and consideration, I've come back to my family home and just ended up doing different things, not having time, and falling out of that pattern. I already feel a bit under the weather and out of sorts. Even after just two weeks I am out of my comfort zone, because I have learned to appreciate mindfulness so much already. It is interesting that when something works for you, and genuinely makes you feel together and controlled, just how quickly it changes you when for whatever reason you loose the routine of it.

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I believe that ensuring you have this time to feel refreshed, even if its just a few minutes a day, in whichever form works personally for you is a must do. From my perspective it makes me more aware, focused, happy and concentrated. As I mentioned it even means I don't feel run down or unwell.

Even though this is completely against my nutrition aims this year, I think I need it for my well-being - nothing wrong with a bit of a treat when you're not feeling 100%, and for me - hot chocolate is the way to go. Having said that I do have an upcoming post about healthy treats which to me are nearly as good!

Rest Day

I'm speaking of a 'rest day' in a different way than you might expect. It's not part of my fitness or exercise regime (something that needs a revamp in the next few weeks!), but rather a pause in what has been a non stop week of work, travel and flat hunting.

I don’t do rest days of doing absolutely nothing though - I think it’s a waste of time even if I am exhausted! Instead I’d rather do something that makes me happy, so today I went to one of my favourite places and enjoyed some of my favourite things.

During my time at university I spent so many days in London’s Imperial War Museum. It’s my favourite museum and one of the most interesting places. A lot has changed since I visited last and I had been meaning to go for a while. The perfect place to wander on a Sunday.

On my way back I stopped at a French cafe I have wanted to try for ages and had some of their fabulous fresh tomato soup and a little mushroom tartlet. French pastry I know, isn't known for its health properties but it's not about having to force yourself to diet for me, I just fancied a little treat.

I'm writing this post now with some of my favourite positive background music on (thanks Youtube!) and a cup of tea, before I start packing for my business trip tomorrow. So important to take the time when you know there are busy days ahead.