Returning to Yourself

How to calmly move through overwhelm

Huckleberry cream scones, a cup of tea, and a homegrown bouquet in my garden tea corner. -Photo by Trista Signe Ainsworth.

“Stay in the center, and you will be ready to move in any direction.”

― Alan W. Watts

To-do lists, future projects, and ambitions all swirled around in my head like the perfect storm. Even after journaling my thoughts with pen and paper for two hours, doubts loomed.

Sometimes re-entry from a calming vacation can wreak havoc on your mind and body. We need to give ourselves the grace to return to our center, a home where our heart resides.

A cascading pansy plant in the sunshine by my teatime corner of the garden. -Photo by Trista Signe Ainsworth.

Even after trying meditation, running, cleaning, and other go-to activities, my whole being felt like a spinning top. It took a train ride to our dentist with my son to find clarity.

Sitting peacefully together, we enjoyed quiet time to look out the window at the passing scenery. I found myself smiling through my thoughts. “I can do this” was my mantra.

A gorgeous late summer red rose in our side garden. -Photo by Trista Signe Ainsworth.