Don’t burn out; keep yourseves fueled and aflame. -Romans 12:11
I read that awesome Scripture today. One thing that I really noticed is how that statement was a command, not a suggestion. It doesn’t say, “Try not to burn out!” It doesn’t say, “Try really hard to stay fueled!” No, it says, “Don’t burn out.” But not just don’t burn out–Keep yourself fueled and aflame. That verse is so convicting for me for several reasons.
I try to do way too much. I take on too many tasks, I add too many projects, I have high expectations for myself. The fact is, I can’t do it all. But I try to.
I struggle with taking a break. With my goal list mounting and my regular chores, I tend to not take breaks until I’ve completely broken down.
I burn myself out (for several days at a time!). This part is the most convicting. The other day I literally said out loud, “I’m just burnt out.” I hadn’t realized what was going on with my body, but I did know that I mentally and physically hadn’t been taken care of.
These are several steps that we can do to take care of ourselves so that we won’t burn out.
Sleep. Are you getting enough rest? Oftentimes we wake up in the morning working and then get to bed really late at night. Are you putting yourself first? Get at least eight hours of sleep! I do believe that each person’s body is different, so maybe keep a sleep journal, or a mental note, of how you feel when you get five hours of sleep, six hours, seven hours, eight, nine–find out what’s best for YOUR body. (Have a refreshing bath and a good night’s rest. – 2 Samuel 11:7)
Eat Right. This is something I struggle with. Not only do I love chocolate and love coffee, I also love pizza too! Think about what your body craves! Have you had any vegetables today? What about water? Are you eating for fuel, or for fun? Again, this is something that I really struggle with, but will try to be more careful about. I will probably never be extreme in this department, but I can at least be more mindful!
Take breaks. Be realistic about your expectations of yourself. Pick three things to accomplish for the day and then do them! If that’s too much, do one thing! Allow yourself to stop and rest, to read, to write, to go for a walk.
Enjoy nature. When I get out of the house and go running or walking, I really refresh. Something about seeing the world outside of my little realm is a nice reminder that life goes on outside of my circumstances.
Take a shower/bath. Maybe it’s just me, but having little kids keeps me from enjoying my showers or baths! Sure, that’s the only time I’m alone (some days!), but be intentional. Rest your mind and thoughts as you bathe. (Have a refreshing bath… – 2 Samuel 11:7)
Read the Word of God. What are you putting into your body? Are you adding in un-Scriptural things, or are you focusing your attention of God’s promises for you? Whenever I read encouraging verses I feel uplifted and have something better to focus on.
Pray. I grew up praying about everything. I literally remember lying in bed looking up at the ceiling asking God to make my bangs grow faster. I asked him to give me a husband with blond hair and blue eyes. I asked Him questions, I told Him my ideas and plans, I asked Him for safety. As I got older, praying was less prevalent because I became preoccupied. I have had to be truly intentional about praying and giving up my thoughts to God. In the end, I always feel refreshed and like I handed over my mental burdens to Someone who cares.
Exercise. I used to do yoga all the time, but recently I stopped for lack of time alone. I’m going to start integrating it back into my routine, because I always feel more relaxed and comfortable (refreshed!) after having set time for it.
ALSO I am participating in a retreat online with Anastasiya Goers to learn to stay more refreshed and to stay fueled.
Join me as I try to refuel and stay balanced at the Balance In Me Retreat!
- What about you?
- Are you burning both ends of the stick?
- What do you do in order to stay calm, relaxed and reposed?
Thank you for reading this post! Feel free to share this post with others you think might benefit from it!
