I am in week seven of employing a new rhythm into my schedule that is providing space and refreshment (self-care) for my soul. On Mondays I take the train up to Norwalk instead of driving. I choose to sit on the west side of the train in the designated quiet car. Those in this car are not supposed to speak to one another or use their phones. It is an oasis of peace and quiet.

As we head north from Oceanside I can feel my soul drink in the quiet and be refreshed by the view of the ocean – a reminder of the expansiveness of the love and power of God. This is a good reality for me to remember as I begin the workweek – especially when we have had our grandkids at the house for the entire weekend! The gentle swaying of the train, the silence, the view of the ocean, all serve to remind me that I am not alone, that God is with me, for me – loving, caring, wise, powerful – and the resources of God are available to me .

Once I arrive in Norwalk I uber/lyft the rest of the way – sometimes mixing in a half-mile walk to a coffee shop before I get my ride. Additionally, I have decided to start one hour, and some Mondays two hours, later – if I can swing it – that gives me ample space to slowly sip my latte and to be. These simple changes have transformed my Mondays and positively impacted the rest of my week – my interactions with others and even those times when I find myself driving freeways to and fro from work having a different import to them. It becomes easier for me to live freely and lightly, embracing the unforced rhythms of God’s grace.

What about you? Are there any simple changes that you can make in your life to provide added space and refreshment? Remember when you care well for you it allows you to serve and love the rest of us more freely and powerfully – it enables you to be more fully the person God has created and called you to be.

Spend some time with God reflecting on this and see if any creative ideas emerge. You might not come on with anything just yet but giving some time and attention to reflecting on this will open your eyes and position your heart to recognize and embrace opportunities to enter into practices (daily, weekly, monthly) that will provide space and refreshment for your soul, and enable you to love and serve others well as you begin to live freely and lightly, embracing the unforced rhythms of God’s grace.