If Ducks can go for a walk, so can I.

After a long year and an extremely busy holiday season, I could not wait to get away. I was counting down the days to when I would be able to get some time off. I found myself daydreaming about all the things I would do on my vacation- sleep in, read a riveting novel and take a long walk. I was convinced that this time away would energize me for the coming year.

I had a great vacation. We slept, ate great food and explored the wonderful Island of Maui. I would take long afternoon siestas on the beach. I came back relaxed and refreshed.

Now, that it’s been a full week since I returned from my well-earned holiday, I find myself feeling the same way before I went away.  I am tired and stressed and definitely have a lack of energy. What’s is going on? This break was supposed to keep me rejuvenated for a long time.

I have come to realize that taking a short break simply removes you from your daily routine for as long as your break lasts. If I want to feel refreshed and focused all the time, I need to change my daily habits. I know we hear this all the time, but it is true. I need to get enough sleep and exercise. Furthermore, I need to take time out of my daily schedule to do the things I enjoy like reading, taking a short walk or playing the piano. I need to take my lunch breaks and say yes to that invite for dinner.

It is unrealistic to cram all my relaxation into one week and expect it to sustain me. What steps can I take today that will make me feel revived and rested?

Anyone for a walk around the lake?

My Dog PJ has this relaxation thing down pretty good!

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