Let's face it: adulting is hard. Often, when we feel stressed, we look for treats to numb the discomfort. We go on TV binges. We reach for chocolate, potato chips, wine. We shop or hit the spa. Which is fine. Only, we might not feel any better, and we may end up feeling worse than before.

We can create a habit of cycling between stress and numbing if we aren't careful, and I get it. I have been there (and revisit there). Which is why I have a mantra to change my perspective when I'm feeling stressed or anxious: "Nourished, not numbed."

What does that mean? The difference between nourishing and numbing is paying attention and not avoiding the discomfort. Nourishing is a way of listening to the body and mind and addressing the underlying needs . . .

Sleep.

Whole foods.

Nature.

Play time.

A snuggle.

Community.

Exercise.

Space.

You deserve a treat, yes, but what you really need is to be nourished. While there's often a big downside to numbing behaviors (disease, weight gain, pain, guilt, shame), nourishment is all upside.

The trick is taking the time to discover what truly nourishes you. For some folks, like myself, walking in the trees on a natural surface is heaven. The fewer people the better. But for you, hanging by the pool with friends may fill your cup.

I invite you to take some time this week to make a nice lo-o-o-ng list of what nourishes you. Use the categories above to get started. Post the list where you can see it. Next time you reach for your favorite numbing treat (hello, Nutella) refer to your list instead. You deserve to be nourished!

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Need some more intense nourishment this season? Registration opens tomorrow for my fall retreat, RNR: Reflect. Nourish. Reach. In this one day retreat, we'll learn how to restore our nervous systems and process our experiences through mindful art and movement while surrounded by nature and inspiring, creative people who are on the same journey. Registration opens tomorrow, September 20th. Newsletter subscribers get a special discount, so make sure you sign up and watch your inbox. I hope to see you there!