What a weekend I had! My husband and I stayed in a cabin at Potato Creek State Park near South Bend. We hiked, ate, ate some more, napped, read lots and basically got to know each other again. It really wasn't a good time to take a break from life. But, if we waited until things calm down, we might be waiting until Kate is 18 - no, 22 - no married - no NEVER!!!! It is amazing how a break like that can revitalize you and get things into perspective. I am definitely one to get all wrapped up in the details of life and forget what's really important. I was reminded this weekend how empowering it can be just to let go for a while.
There are many people from many different backgrounds who would claim that my chronic pain situation stemmed from something more mental than physical. In other words, toxic emotions like stress and anxiety caused my back pain. I don't know if I believe that or not, but it sure gets me thinking about the role of stress and anxiety in my wellbeing. When I was 20, I developed Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). I KNOW that was caused by stress. It was something that totally altered my daily life, my quality of life. It came with stress and went away over time when things calmed down and I got some perspective. Maybe, my back pain came and will go away in a similar way.
What I know for sure is that poorly managed stress damages our quality of life, both physically and mentally. When I am stressed, I can't be the mom I want to be. I can't be the wife and friend I want to be. I can't have the life I want to live if I don't manage my stress. So, yes, this weekend was not a good weekend to go away. I had Thanksgiving to get ready for, leaves to rake and household chores to get done. But, can I afford not to take care of myself? Can I afford not to take care of my marriage? I believe the answer is a definite NO!
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