We ALL need rest (although try telling that to my five-year-old). So I started thinking about what helps me relax and stock up on energy…here are my ideas.
1. I prepare for recharging like I’d prepare for a visit from a friend. Yes, this is a little counter-intuitive because I’m doing some work up front, but it’s worth it. The house doesn’t have to be spotless, but I try to get it to a decent point. Then I plan some activities and good food, clear my schedule and cut back on obligations, and it’s all worth it for the recharging time ahead.
2. Limit screen time. This is a big one. It’s easy for me to zone out in front of the computer or television, but at the end of it, I totally do NOT feel rested. There’s noise. Noise noise noise noise, like the Grinch says. So turning those off and getting into a book or a notebook or an artsy project (see 4, below) is what helps me.
3. Cat naps! Goes without saying, really.
4. I try to do something creative, but only if it doesn’t feel like “work.” Writing can fall into this category, but if I’m not having a good time, I should work on something else, like a Shiny New Idea, or…scrapbooking, or making my kids’ Halloween costumes.
5. Sort of related to the above, PLAY. If I can sit down, with or without the kids, and break out the crayons and a coloring book, I’m a happy girl. It is SO soothing. Same with Play-Do, LEGO, My Little Ponies….
There’s more, of course, but I’m going to take my own advice and relax. Well, not really. I’m in Tip 1, which is setting the scene for recharging. I’ve got a few writing-related things I need to wrap up over the next few weeks. I’m taking a month-long break from this blog, although I’ll still do my two scheduled posts at the YA Muses, and I’ll try to comment on other blogs occasionally. So, my next post here will be October 11th.
Beth Hull 
You know, I really needed to read this (and see the gopher in her sleeping mask). You’re right, it’s so important to turn off all the electronics. Arrrgh, so important to take a break! I always feel better after I do it. The recharge is worth it!
So have a great break! (is what I meant to impart…)
Thanks, PB! It IS worth it, but hard to do sometimes. I’ll still be around, but maybe a little less?
I like the gopher’s cloud bed. It looks SOOO cozy. Hmm, I think it’s bedtime….
All great ideas, QS. My favorite visual take-away is you playing in your room (alone–following a cat nap) with your My Little Ponies. Love that! Thanks for the reminder to value recharging as much as anything else.
Ah yes, the My Little Ponies. They’re so cute. Almost as compelling as naps. 🙂
Hey Beth, enjoy your time away.I don’t have time for recharging at the moment, but lots of different projects mean I don’t have time to get bored with any one thing. Good luck with your revisions!
Thanks, Vicki! Lots of different projects to balance here, too. I read another post recently about someone who now takes breaks from writing for part of the year (oh, here it is: http://writerunboxed.com/2013/10/06/taking-a-break/ ). I can’t imagine doing this, but I’m wondering if I shouldn’t give myself some time off for Christmas vacation, anyway. Then I can try for some real recharging.