There is a lot of new construction happening around where I live. Often, when I go for a walk, I choose the route that takes me past these houses in different stages of completion, as well as some townhouses. It is starting to feel a little bit claustrophobic, to be honest. All the noise and vehicles and people. Buildings crowding out the sky and taking over what used to be corn fields.
This past weekend, I noticed a lot of work being done in one particular area. Lots of workers with shovels. Then a truck pulling a trailer pulled up. It was full of saplings and shrubs. The development is creating a great space with parking, covered tables and plantings. A green space, I think it is called. An empty space. This makes my heart happy. Sitting outside under the Colorado blue sky, watching the leaves flutter in a breeze definitely makes my day better.
The construction reminds me how crowded my life can get. Work, family, writing, friends. The list goes on and on. I can get wrapped up in all the tasks of my life. I start noticing my shoulders creeping up next to my ears. I feel my jaw tighten and little tendrils of headache start up behind my eyes. I need to remember to create an empty space in my life – time where I have nothing to do. Time to sit and relax and enjoy the crickets in the evening. Sit on the porch and watch the sunset. Time to recharge.
I’m always amazed at how much more creative I am when I allow myself some down time. I’m much more productive, and I’m a much better person to be around. (You’re welcome, Honey!)
Growing up, I’ve always needed that empty space. One of my favorite spots was at a bend in the river on my family’s cattle ranch. The alder trees and willows grew right down to the water’s edge and there was this giant flat rock. It was full of little glittering specks of fool’s gold and mica. I would sit on that rock for hours, all by myself, just listening to the gentle lapping of the creek as it made its way through our meadow.
Another spot that helped me create an empty space for recharging was the bathtub. My mom knew that if I was getting cranky, all she had to do was fill the tub, put in some bubble bath and drag me into the bathroom. I might go in kicking and screaming, but like magic, I would calm down and come out as a much nicer (and cleaner) version of myself.
The buzz word now is “self-care” and I guess I’ve always done it, just not calling it that. I wholeheartedly recommend everyone create some empty space in your life and allow yourself some time to slow down.
I’d love to hear where your empty space is. Put them in the comments below. You never know who might need to hear it and try it for themselves!