Staying balanced in a busy life
July 2nd, 2008 -- Posted in Musings, web stuff, work | 3 Comments »I didn’t get to sleep until 2am last night (or is that this morning). Why? Because I couldn’t turn my brain off! It was full of ideas, plans - exciting stuff. And, just like a kid on Christmas eve, I was too excited to sleep.
As I’ve probably mentioned before, I’m a teacher, and I’m passionate about reading and learning. As much as I love my job, my dream is to run my own business, work from home, and be able to spend the time to grow my garden, cook good food, build a harmonious home and spend time with those I love. So, I’ve embarked on a self-guided education about how to do this. It’s very exciting stuff! And I have a lot of ideas that I want to capture and implement - to the point of scribbling down ideas in the dark 
On top of that I have… a full-time job; am going to start a Saturday science communicator job for six weeks next school term, (and the one after); I’m learning the cello; go to the gym almost every day; have a family and friends to talk to… in short, I have a very busy life, like I’m sure all of you do. Nick’s still in the UK at the moment, and I joked to him tonight that I’ve gotten used to life without him - I’ll have to find some time in my day to squeeze him in!! Now, of course I say that in jest, but there’s an element of truth in there, as well.
It’s so easy to get caught up being busy - even if it’s productive busy - and then burn out. I got sick last week, and I think the main reason was a lack of sleep - too many late nights on the computer! At least when Nick gets home he’ll be able to roll over and say “Oi! Enough of that now”
I like learning, growing, planning, doing… I’m a happier person at this point in my life than ever before because I’m doing things I’ve put off for years. But it’s important to take a step back once in a while and make sure I’m not neglecting the need for relaxation and peace that every mind and body needs.
I find deep breathing and breath-focussed meditation helps me to do this - when I remember to fit it into my day! How do you stay balanced?
