Yesterday, after another busy week of working in the social care sector, I found myself doing what I always do when life feels heavy, I headed to the woods.
There’s something remarkably healing about walking beneath the trees, that reminds me to slow down. After years of working in health care and having four children, I’ve learnt that if I don’t take care of myself too, I have nothing left to give.
Working with young autistic adults is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be emotionally demanding. On some days I feel as though I come home carrying the worries of the people I support and their families. Long shifts often mean being on high alert for long periods of time, and of course if you are working with an individual there’s not the option of breaks or time for lunch. Working in social care means long shifts without a break, is part of the job. There’s definitely truth in the adage of being “all cared out”.
So, into the woods I go.
The moment I step onto a woodland path, I feel more relaxed. I can hear birdsong instead of traffic and thoughts and worries seem to melt away, for a while at least.
In fact many of the people I support benefit from walking in the woods too. If an individual is feeling anxious or stressed then a brisk walk can do wonders. Plus walking sometimes becomes a safe place for people to talk about their worries. Walking side by side with someone, takes away the pressure of sitting in silence and forced eye contact. This means that sometimes I can spend a morning walking with an individual followed by a walk later on for my own health. Forrest Gump springs to mind.
We all need to pause
I spend days encouraging people to look after themselves, but people working in health care often forget to do the same.
Time is precious
Working in healthcare has reminded me of how valuable ordinary days are.
Every day is a gift, and it’s so important to make it matter. If that means spending time in the great outdoors for your own peace, then this time is definitely not wasted.
Looking after yourself isn’t selfish
You can’t pour from an empty cup, and nature is definitely my way of refilling mine.
If life feels overwhelming at the moment, perhaps you don’t need a grand solution, maybe you just need twenty minutes outside. Don’t worry about how many steps you walk on your step counter, don’t overthink the destination, just enjoy the peace and tranquillity. Notice the birdsong, listen to the wind in the trees and feel at peace.
I don’t walk because I’m trying to be fit and productive. I walk because it destresses me from work, which I feel is definitely worth protecting.
What helps you recharge when life feels overwhelming?
I’d love to hear what fills your cup. Is it a walk in the woods, time by the sea, gardening, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea? Share your thoughts in the comments, you might just inspire someone else to make time for themselves today.
Don’t forget to take coffee or another favourite beverage. I love this travel mug from Contigo, as it keeps drinks warm for ages and so far hasn’t leaked, despite going in the dishwasher many times!
