Asphalt Dreams

Sometimes the stress of the day can be too much. The walls feel like they are closing in. The air feels thick, the anxiety of it all. Then, when you finally find time to relax, it's bedtime. That extra 5 minutes it takes to get out of the bed. Those "do I really need this job" shower thoughts. The pep talk you have to give yourself as you yawn over coffee.

When it feels like just yesterday you paid your car note, but it's already due again. When "its May already" feels like it came fast and too slow, and the stress becomes anxiety. When it starts to feel like everyone needs something, wants something. But are rather unlikely to return the gesture. When you can't get a good-nights rest, because you have so many things on your mind.

They say these feelings are common, but hearing about how to deal with them isn't.

I like to read, paint, listen to music. If that doesn't work, I play Candy Crush... yea yea I know. But the point is, I do something! I pour my energy into something creative, even if its to get me out of my head for a few minutes. I find it beneficial to keep my mind and hands busy.

But when I need a real escape, I like to hit the road. My go-to's are normally the beach, a mountainside or random place I always wanted to visit. But, I enjoy finding new places as well, and often do.

Lately scenic byways have been a blessing. Being on the road clears my mind. I stop at strategic places most of the time. Find hidden and eclectic little towns. Wonderful local destinations where I can take in the fresh air and sun. Wander care-free and go wherever I wish.

I create a playlist, lower all the windows, and blast my favorite tracks. In most cases, the longer the drive the better. This is my time to silence my overthinking. On these trips, I don't worry about what's due tomorrow. I don't worry about who needs what, or all the encroaching deadlines. I focus on the now. I enjoy what's before me. I may take a few pictures, walk along the shore, take in the scene or take a nap on my hotel balcony.

I do my best to take care of myself. At the end of the day, I'm the only one living my life. So being happy and healthy should take top priority. Admittedly I can always do better. If it's my desire to share my joy and passion with others, I must first seek peace and balance within me. Giving my all to everyone and everything leaves nothing for me. Been there, done that, and I don't want the T-shirt or complimentary bag of complicated feelings and resentment.

In the moment things always seem hectic and stressful. Taking a step away, gaining a new perspective and returning fresh. helps. More often than not, this is just what I need to accomplish it all. Because after all, women can do anything and everything.

So the next time you feel like you need a healthy break, take one.

How do you unwind after a long day?

---

#Roadtrip #Travel #Adventure #Wanderlust #Stress #Anxiety #Depression #Freedom