Taking a Break
Author: Sheri Denkensohn-Trott
Sometimes life throws you not just curveballs, but actual beanballs. Like a baseball batter, you need to take action to avoid being hit in the head by a fastball.
I have a variety of things going on in my life right now that are challenging (see my blog, “I’m Not Always Happy”) and sometimes I find it hard to get moving in the morning. While it is certainly important to recognize when I need extra rest, staying in bed all day can potentially cause medical issues for me. To stay healthy and productive, I must make sure that during each day, if possible, but especially each week, I take a break and do something for me. It’s all about learning how important self-care is. And it is different for everyone.
For me, options are more limited because of the pandemic. But there are things that I can do and must do for myself. As you have likely seen in some of my videos, our terrace is large and filled with many beautiful flowers and herbs. When the weather 
is not ridiculously hot (and we have had our share of scorching days) I find it to be an area of peace and solace. It is a great place to read, nap, and listen to music. Sometimes I find myself just sitting and listening to the birds. We have a rather loud mockingbird (or maybe more than one)!
Visiting with friends on the terrace is also fun. I insert “friend time” in my schedule specifically for that purpose and so I don’t feel isolated. Also, my weekly meditation class, resting yoga class, and my online exercise class are key elements of my mental health.
I have recently incorporated staying off social media for at least a day or two as a means of taking a break. I spend a large portion of my time working on my computer and smart phone for business and pleasure. While hard to do because I think I might miss something important, it is critical to take that break and refuel.
Most importantly, I have had to learn to say, “no.” There are only so many hours in a day and despite my wishes, I am not Wonder Woman. This is a constant struggle and I’m sure I’m not the only one. It is important to set 
boundaries and realize when the plate will get too full if you add anything. Knowing what you need to do for yourself helps inform the yes or no decision.
I encourage you to figure out how best to take a break when you are not on a formal vacation. We all need breaks; of that I am certain.
