June

Recently I’ve heard a lot of people talking about self care. To be honest I’ve never paid much attention to this “term/concept” or believed such a thing existed for myself or even needed to exist.

I thought I would put it to the test. I left the little with Grammy and packed my bags. Although it did feel like I was leaving my heart behind, and I had the worst “mom guilt” ever, never having left my 2.5 year old son before. I must admit I was pretty excited about some much needed me time. I arrived in Toronto and explored the city. Someone once told me that exploring a new city can be a very freeing experience and she was right. Although Toronto wasn’t a new city to me, it’s the first time I explored it like it was.

I think I walked from one end to the other, I could have taken other transportation but something told me that by walking I wouldn’t miss a thing. There were a few times I got my east and west mixed up, but it only led me to more interesting finds. I took my time when it seemed like everyone was in such a hurry, it was like I was living in my own slow motion world. I took in everything, the sights, the sounds, the smells, the food and the people. I asked for directions, had conversations with strangers, caught up with some amazing old friends and even though a little crazy to admit, had the first meal of my life in a restaurant solo. You know what? It was great, with a little always running around I almost forgot what it was like to eat hot food.

I’m always searching for ways to build my self confidence, and to instill the same sense of confidence in my son. I realize that for me self care is one way. I’m all in for something that will make me a better, mother, wife, friend and just better all around self. For me, self care has all of a sudden become necessary. I had the chance to reconnect with my inner self , catch up on my thoughts and just slow down in general. However It doesn’t take long for my thoughts to begin racing again. I know that I will need to continue to find ways to incorporate self care into my regular schedule for my shadow and me!