The power of solitude

Go to where no one can find you!

I’ve always appreciated my alone time. If I don’t remember to find time to be alone, I often regret it. I don’t always know I need until it is too late. Trying to notice when I need it is something I continue to work on.

Three weeks ago, we suffered a house fire. Things have been really crazy ever since as I have tried to go on with my normal life in the midst of chaos…that’s what we do, right? Just keep going.

Yesterday I decided to start my day at the gym. IT WAS THE BEST THING I DID IN A WHILE!

As I worked out, I realized just how AWESOME I was starting to feel. I’m sure the endorphins helped, but there were so many good things happening that I was overcome with positivity. Working out is always one of the best things I can do, but yesterday, I realized the importance of doing it alone.

Not only was I ALONE and on my own, but I was doing what I wanted to do, when I wanted to do it. Nobody there was talking to me, expecting anything from me or making me pay attention to them. It was GLORIOUS.

Sure, I could have gone for a walk with a friend or invited my husband to join me at the gym, but it wouldn’t have satisfied my need for exercise AND my need to be alone. I felt strong, independent and powerful. That was something I really needed this week.

Think about where you can get your alone time and take it. Here are some of my favorites:

*Driving – hanging in my car.

*Paddleboarding -middle of the lake…just me.

*Gym or shopping – sometimes I run into people, but I am mostly alone.

*Running, biking, walking – so simple, yet so powerful

*One of my favorites – dining alone at a restaurant.

Most of my alone places remind me to be good to myself and make me feel cared for…just by me.