It’s Spring Break week here in Pennsylvania — at least for our school district, that is. While we don’t have plans to fly off to a remote island in the Caribbean (I wish!), I am taking a much-needed break from work. For the entire week, I am going off the grid. No emails, calls, or text. Nothing. [Okay, one day I have to check in for a magazine deadline, but that’s it!]
It’s been a rough stretch here lately, with more on the horizon, and frankly, I need a break. Mentally, physically, emotionally … I need a time-out.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve struggled with slowing down and taking time off — from work, the gym, life … I’ve learned through therapy that my struggle is a trauma response common among PTSD survivors. Staying active and busy is a defense mechanism; a way to protect myself and remain vigilant. But I’ve also learned that it’s okay to let my guard down; to slow down, rest, and unplug as a way to recharge. We all need that, not just PTSD survivors.
So this week, I’m taking a much-needed break. It won’t look anything like my college spring break experiences (from what I can remember) — no beach, no alcohol, no late night dancing — but at 50, that’s okay. My only plan is to sleep, spend time with my loves, and maybe go for a daily walk in nature. And maybe write … but no promises. Planning for a post during this respite might feel like work, and that is not on the itinerary this week.
-LJDT
