If you had asked me a few years ago how I maintained my health and well-being, I probably would’ve laughed — not because I didn’t care, but because I didn’t know how. Back then, I was stuck in survival mode. I thought being strong meant pushing through exhaustion, ignoring my needs, and pretending everything was okay.
But I’ve grown. I’ve learned. I’ve unlearned. And these days, taking care of myself isn’t a luxury — it’s a requirement.
Here are the strategies I now hold close to maintain my health and well-being — emotionally, physically, and spiritually:
1. Protecting My Peace Like It’s Sacred (Because It Is)
Not everyone gets access to me anymore. I no longer feel guilty for saying no to people, places, or energy that leaves me feeling drained. I’ve learned that peace is something you protect, not just something you stumble into.
2. Getting Back into My Body
For so long, I was disconnected from my physical self. Now, I make movement a priority — not to shrink myself, but to feel myself. Walking, stretching, dancing in my room, even a quick workout helps me feel grounded. It reminds me that I’m still here. That this body is mine.
3. Rest — Real, Unapologetic Rest
Not hustle disguised as “resting.” Not guilt-ridden breaks where I’m mentally elsewhere. I’m talking about real rest: naps, sleeping in, quiet mornings, doing nothing and not feeling bad about it. I let myself pause without punishment.
4. Writing to Heal, Not Just to Share
Blogging has been my emotional sanctuary. It’s how I process life, how I honor my own voice, how I give shape to things I don’t yet understand. When I write, I don’t have to pretend. I get to be honest, raw, soft — and that alone is healing.
5. Staying Connected to Safe People
Healing in isolation isn’t healing at all. I check in with people who see me. I vent, I laugh, I cry, I let others hold space for me when I need it. I don’t need a village — but I need a few good hearts, and I’m thankful I have them.
6. Feeding My Spirit
Whether it’s prayer, journaling, or simply lighting a candle and sitting in stillness — I make space for the spiritual. Not for performance, but for alignment. I ask myself often: “What does my soul need today?” The answers are always gentle.
I don’t always get it right. Some days, I slip back into old habits. But now I recognize when I’m slipping — and that, in itself, is growth.
Health and well-being aren’t about perfection. They’re about returning to yourself over and over again. Choosing softness when the world demands hardness. Choosing presence when your mind wants to run.
So, if you’re reading this and wondering where to start — just start small.
Drink water. Take a deep breath. Speak kindly to yourself. And come back home, one gentle step at a time.
With love and care,
Junie
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