This time last Friday I was just coming down from a long walk around Coniston in the Lake District with family and it was the perfect break away to recharge my batteries and totally switch off. It has been a busy couple of months and I was really looking forward to some space, both physical and mental. We had originally planned to do the three counties tops but with rapidly changing weather decided against it. Initial disappointment turned quickly into gratitude for a more varied and leisurely weekend of walks, culture and of course local ales.
Whereas on a weekend I am normally up and out training, running or meeting friends, this week it was a real luxury to spend the extra time in bed reading, writing and catching up on life. The silence, and fresh air flowing through the house instead of my usual mix of car horns, people shouting, exhaust fumes and pot was an absolute joy and a much easier start to the day. It made me realise a few things I had been missing from my own daily routines.
As with all of us, I often get caught up in to do lists, whether it be work, personal admin, fitness or spending time with family or friends it can sometimes feel like we barely have time to catch our breath. Whilst I am good at and lucky enough to make time for myself on a daily basis, I realise I am not necessarily always using it in the right way.
Because of that break I have come back to the big smoke with a clear head, a fresh perspective and a few ideas of opportunities I would like to research more, and how better I can spend my time. Being outside has always been key to me and this week I had the opportunity through my work to spend some time outdoors with Community Wood on a schools project and meet people doing really interesting work. A friend and I are booking in a once a week walk home along the river, which started on Wednesday and is such a great way to wind down, get some fresh air and the blood flowing as well as spending time with people that are important to me.
Sometimes it takes stepping away and getting out into big wide open spaces for me to see it, as does spending time with inspiring people.
We may not always get the opportunity to get escape to wide open spaces such as the Lakes, however we can find quiet, open spaces all around us that allow us to clear our minds and catch our breath.
What can you do this week to recharge and reset?