Ink on My Fingers Blog Speaks - Taking Care of Yourself

Today I ran across a blog called "Ink on My Fingers," hosted by Susannah Conway. Her post for today really spoke to me and how I have been feeling lately -- not so hot (blue, in fact).  I wanted to save her words and thoughts for my own future reference and for anyone else who chances to read this blog and is also going through a "not so hot/blue" phase. Here's what Susannah had to say:

"When the blues hit it's even more imperative to be kind to myself, particularly when it's so tempting to kick myself while i'm down. I mean, i'm already down there - why not heap some more doubt and insecurity and crap on my head? Some days i really do have to drag myself ... to just get through the day in one piece....

But wait!  The picture is perhaps not so bleak, Susannah reminds. There are things that she -- and we -- can do to help get through the day  -- little treats, and our "own bag of comforts" perhaps?  I really like this way of thinking --

"Over the years I've watched friends with kids keep treats and games in their bag so when they're away from home there's always something to keep the children occupied and comforted; as adults we need the equivalent of this. Our own bag of comfort. In mine I have: books that lift me up, new songs to be found on iTunes, sofa + blanket + DVD, a hot bath, ... my journal where i can rant or sob or attempt gratitude lists. I also have friends and a sister I can email or call and talk it through with, but when they are not around, i only have me to turn to, and if i'm finding it hard to sit through the fear/discomfort/pain/upset i let myself switch off with a film and a gigantic cup of tea. I let myself be distracted..." 

The ability to self-comfort, is a good skill to have, and I am working on it.  The distraction part is necessary, too. Okay, but truly, my problem is perhaps that I let myself be too distracted by things that should not occupy my time, to hide from the things I need to fix about myself and my life.  Nevertheless, as "Ink on My Fingers" propounds...

"Sometimes being your own best friend... is knowing when it's okay to just let yourself off the hook, being kind and gentle, especially when you feel broken."

And a good night's sleep will offer much, also, in this quest for daily happiness..

"... because nine times out of ten things look a bit better in the morning."

Okay, Susannah, I'm getting there. But Lord please, puh-lease, let me good night's sleep!!! (Off to the sleep-disorders center tomorrow night!)  

Thanks to Susannah Conway for posting these sentiments, which were taken from part three of her series on "How to Fall in Love With You."  The full series and her blog can be found at http://inkonmyfingers.typepad.com.