Day 7: Reminders

It's so easy to get caught up in the daily hustle, isn't it? We're constantly bombarded with tasks, notifications, and expectations. Sometimes, all we crave is a moment to truly "slowing down" and "take time to breathe." While many turn to music videos or animations for a brief escape, I've found something far more profound: the power of introspection, especially through writing. Think about it – when was the last time you truly sat with your thoughts, not just letting them race, but actually exploring them? For me, this journey often begins with a simple pen and paper, or even just opening a blank document. It’s in these quiet moments that I can connect with different parts of myself, sometimes even my teenage self, remembering aspirations and anxieties that still resonate today. This act of putting words down is a unique form of "taking time to breathe" for my soul, allowing me to process emotions like vulnerability and even imposter syndrome that might otherwise feel overwhelming. What really helps me embrace this process are profound insights from art and literature. I recently came across a quote that truly resonated: "Do not worry about your contradictions - Persephone is both floral maiden and queen of death. You, too, can be both." This idea, picturing a "skull, roses, and pomegranates," reminds me that our complexities aren't flaws, but integral parts of who we are. It’s okay to have conflicting feelings or different facets to your personality. Embracing these "contradictions" is a huge step in self-acceptance and a powerful way to "slow down" the internal judgment we often carry. Even unexpected sources can spark deep reflection. The text from a book like "The Siren" by Tiffany Reisz, for instance, discussing "words, creation, and closeness to God," can unexpectedly bring about a personal "revelation." It just goes to show that wisdom and connection to a higher source can appear in the most surprising places. It’s about being open to receiving those messages, pausing to let them sink in, and reflecting on how they apply to your own life. This, to me, is true "slowing down." So, how can you practice this in your own life? Here are a few ways I've found helpful: Journaling for Clarity: Don't overthink it. Just start writing. What's on your mind right now? What made you smile today, or what's bothering you? Sometimes, just seeing your thoughts on paper helps to organize them and provides a much-needed mental pause. It's a fantastic way to "take time to breathe" from the mental clutter. Mindful Reading: Instead of just consuming content, try engaging with it. If a passage or quote, like the one about Persephone, truly strikes you, stop and reflect. What does it mean to you? How does it relate to your experiences? This deep dive into text is a wonderful antidote to a fast-paced world. Embrace Your "Moods": Like that funny frog illustration saying, "Without my snacks, I am nothing," sometimes acknowledging our simple, human moods and needs is a form of self-care. Don't fight feeling "insane enough to just be vulnerable without fear" or even just wanting your snacks. These moments of authentic self-expression are essential for our well-being. Connect with Your Past Self: Revisit your past. What did your younger self dream of? What anxieties did they have? Seeing how far you've come, or what still needs healing, can be incredibly grounding and provides perspective, helping you "slow down" and appreciate your journey. Ultimately, "slowing down" and "taking time to breathe" isn't always about escaping; sometimes, it's about diving deeper into your own experience. It's about giving yourself permission to reflect, to feel, and to grow. And through this process, you might just find your own powerful voice.