Day Four: Rest is Productive
I tried to start my day off with a little festivity by making “Christmas” pancakes…which may look pretty okay in the photo of my Ikea goat pancake but let me tell you that once I tried to get it out of the mold that goat was quickly de-capitated I’m afraid. But they still tasted great and it was a fun little way to start the day!
I found myself feeling really exhausted after the weekend and decided to take the day to rest. After six years of retail and working two jobs for maybe half of that, it is really hard for me to just stop everything and rest. I have to analyze the voice in my head saying “You should be…” and determine if it’s valid or not. I’m trying to be better at listening to my body, and taking a break when it asks for one. So I climbed back in bed and spent the day napping and watching TV with Navi because I knew that this week was going to be hectic and I just needed to turn off my mind for a bit.
But my brain had to turn back on eventually because I had kiddos to teach! So off I went with a festive tea in hand, a cozy winter hat and a book full of Christmas carols. Something that really lifted my spirits was a parent stopping me in the hallway to tell me that they’ve noticed how I treat and work with the other kids and that I was really great with them. They asked me about my schedule and wanted me to teach their kids. It was so meaningful for me to feel so seen. I work really hard to make my lessons fun and engaging and make them fit for each student’s need - it means a lot when someone takes the time to say that they see the hard work I’m putting in.
It’s December and I’ve been struggling again with finding the time and energy to cook for myself so I’m trying not to beat myself up over buying meals that are convenient. Trying to change the narrative in my head and remember that just because it’s convenient doesn’t mean it’s “bad” for you. I am allowed to find meals that fit in with my lifestyle. So it was a beef and broccoli frozen dinner that tasted way better than it looks and time to watch my favourite Youtubers new video. Dan and Phil are two UK Youtubers that have a gaming channel that has been lying dormant for years and they finally resurrected it and they are doing something called “Gamingmas” where they post a new video every day for the month of December up until the 25th. It’s my comfort show right now and it is my safe place. 10/10 would recommend if you like watching nerdy gay boys play video silly video games and banter.
And honestly, that concludes day 4! It was pretty low key, but I’m proud of myself for doing what I needed.
How are you going to listen to your body today?
-B