Lexie Manion, Art Therapist

I just worked 20 days in a row (my personal record) and I don’t necessarily suggest to do that when the frequency of the work is more demanding as it is my first full-time job and I am still adjusting!!

I was actually asked to commit to more than that — from going from one job to the other after my full-time. I solely committed my days off to my part-time. I highly admire my colleagues who do it all, most of whom have families to take care of when they get home, and I respect that many of us have to work so hard in this capitalistic society. I only ever want people to have access to what they need in this world, and that’s not up to me as someone swimming along with everyone else in the currents.

I only missed two days during my entire time in grad school, which was due to ice on the roads on my two hour commute. I am dedicated. I show up.

So, when I realized I needed to slow down this week, I advocated for a day off this weekend. I don’t like inconveniencing people, and I value my work ethic.

All at the same time, I needed to prioritize a break to continue on. I have been doing well, and I also realized this is not sustainable.

I believe in radical self-care and rest. I’m happy to model it. And I’m learning I need to practice what I preach. I love exclaiming to my mentors and best friend when I have done my ADLs; I feel proud when I stay committed to self-care. It can be a task at times, as self-care isn’t always the fluffy acts of bubble baths and face masks, although all of it is relative and important.

We all deserve a break. I regain my strength in my solitude. It may not always be accessible, but it always goes back to “We can’t pour from an empty cup” and the oxygen mask on a plane metaphor. I find when I’m tired, I may internally roll my eyes at those words of wisdom — we know it and sometimes it’s just hard to breathe in when life is “go, go, go.” But I find when I feel refreshed from relaxation and restoration, those words comfort my heart and allow me to stop and listen. We all need to stop and listen. We all deserve to stop and listen.

May my spirit be ablaze with love and passion. May my soul remain gentle in catharsis and resting.