De-stressing

Everyone has stress. It is a part of life. A bit of stress can even be healthy as it sharpens our perceptions and keeps us alert. But too much is...well, too much. So, keeping things in balance in our lives is important. 

How do you de-stress? For me, it has always been crafts. Some women de-stress with a nice manicure. I am happy when there is paint under my fingernails. Some women relax with a shoe shopping spree. I kick back with a embossing powder purchase. Some women sip wine from crystal glasses. Oh, yeah, I do the wine thing too, but it is usually from a paper cup...in my craft room! 

Whatever your best de-stressing technique is, be sure to make time for it. Women are hard-wired genetically to be the nurturers of the human race. Admit it- when you are mentally reviewing that to-do list, how often do YOU land in first place? To be the best that you can be for your family, friends and coworkers, you must first take care of yourself. 

So, give some thought to nurturing you today. I know you are like me and love crafts, or you wouldn't be reading this blog! So, head on over the the store website and see what's up. Think about scheduling yourself some time for a class or workshop. Pencil in some personal time for a little shopping. Think about how much fun (and how relaxing) it would be to take a class, join a collage or mailart social, to make some ATC's or participate in Altered Arts Workshop. And don't ever feel guilty about moving yourself up the to-do list. When you take good care of yourself, you are better able to take good care of everyone else. It's all about balance.

Take care. I will see you in the embossing powder aisle!