Nurture – Just a Girl and a Bike

The forest heals. The fresh air infuses life. The sights and sounds of nature refresh and revive.

After a busy time with unexpected challenges, I could feel the fatigue building as I plunged into final preparations for and all weekend reading and writing conference. I did something quite smart that I don’t usually do. I took a day off and enjoyed life. A full day of hiking, happy hour and even a football game, with my husband, refreshed me.

I had way too much fun at the conference, despite the fact that it had to be online. I gave presentations. I went to presentations. I helped host others. It felt good to be part of something that has been fundamental to my writing success.

By the end of the three days, I was cooked. I did something smart, that 9 don’t usually do. I read in bed and binged Shudder (if you’re a closet horror lover like me, check out my other website, KillersAndDemons).

After two days, I felt better. I decided to continue to be smart. I did a bunch of work, then, I went outside into the sunshine, and walked for two hours through the forest.

Am I finally learning to listen when my being needs something? I hope so.

Do you listen when you need some self care? I find having a list of things that I know I love thay make me feel good, and being setup to easily execute on them, sets me up for success. For example, having good hiking clothes clean at all times, a great pair of shoes by the door, and pack ready to go with snacks and sunscreen. Or having books or movies on hand so I can chill. Or having my bathroom stocked with bath salts, candles, and aromatic bubble bath.

Take care, and be sure to stop and be nice to yourself when you need a break.

I have recently fallen in love with nature walks.

Through the various phases and stages of lockdown, my husband chose a fantastic way to deal with closures and isolation. He walked. Everyday. Sometimes for hours.

He even got a rotation going where he would walk with different friends on different days. It was a fantastic way to achieve both mental and physical health.

I started going with him. Two or three times a week, even during the coldest winter days. With the right gear, and right attitude, a dose of physical activity and nature can be good for the body and the soul.

Today I had my head buried in a couple of writing projects. Late afternoon I realized my brain was done for the day and I felt blah. I decided to put on some walking gear and do a beautiful forest loop close to home.

My hubby ended up joining me. Two hours later, forest loop done, I feel revived and relaxed. Time for a home brew on the patio.

What do you do to stay healthy, physically and mentally?

It is that time again….as the festivities flow, we find ourselves amidst a plethora of treats. There are parties to attend where we swim through a sea of savoury appies, sweet cocktails and decadent desserts. There are people to see, and many drinks to be had. The baking is all around us, and the family dinners are abundant. With so many functions during such a whirlwind of a time, how does one stay healthy?

Don’t worry – you can have fun without getting whisked away into a world of gluttony and inactivity. I am here with you. Together, we can make it through the holidays and into the new year.

My approach? Keep it simple – I say!!!

One trick that really works for me is the ‘big’ salad. Whether it be for lunch or dinner, you can whip it up real quick, and pack if full with protein and greens! Your protein of choice will keep your hungry at bay, and the veggies will pump you up with the vitamins and minerals you need especially at this time of year.

Really, all you need is a simply protein, lots of greens, and whatever other veggies you like. Here is a sample to get you off and running.

Continue reading “A Healthy Holiday Season – The ‘Big’ Festive Salad” →

Tag: Nurture

Self Care

Nature Walk and Happy Hour

A Healthy Holiday Season – The ‘Big’ Festive Salad