Catching my breath…
Something I haven’t told too many people, but for some reason feel compelled to mention today, is that I suffer from a anxiety induced disorder called Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I won’t bore you with the symptoms, or the myriad of things on my mind that cause the anxiety. No, this breath is about finding a way to relax, even in the middle of a storm. It seems I’m presently being strongly urged to find a way to relax.
A few weeks ago the youth minister, a good friend of mine, challenged each of the volunteers in the ministry to choose an area to grow in. He provided a short list of areas that will be important for new volunteers to study as they begin to commit their lives and time to the ministry. After a quick perusal of the list I noticed one set of coursework titled, “Establishing Boundaries and Avoiding Burnout.” That sounded very intriguing, especially as I have often felt overwhelmed by the myriad of things needing to get done in the ministry. Hint #1.
Kassy & I started Bradley classes this week, and as one of our homework elements we’re supposed to spend 10 minutes relaxing each day alone, and another 10 minutes practicing relaxation techniques together. Obviously, this would ideally help with labor and delivery, but it’s really just a good idea anyway. It’s entirely too easy for us to develop a routine of busy-ness that leaves no time to unwind. Hint #2.
Tonight I read this article about relaxing the body, heart, mind, and soul.
Physical rest
I’ll admit I do a pretty good job of relaxing my body. Possibly too many nights when I get home I do my best to have some time with my feet up, and nothing to do, much to the neglect of housework or time with Kassy that may be needed. I’m very picky about getting my eight hours sleep each night, and thankfully my job is flexible enough to allow this.
Heart rest
Since coming to Austin, I have spent quite a bit of time missing the quality of friendships I had when I was in college. If not for Kassy, it would have been nearly impossible to stay this far from friends and family, but I have not allowed my heart to relax in the faith that God will provide the things I need, the people I need, to sustain my heart. Jesus was very clear that we can lean on him when we feel beat down (Matthew 11:28), and trying to develop deep, core friendships can very much beat you down.
Soul rest
I know that God calls us to simply “be still, and know Him,” but I can’t think of the last time I actually spent even just a few minutes doing that. The author describe soul rest as relaxing in the belief that God will be there for each of the details of our lives, and in my mind that leads directly into mind rest.
Mind rest
Mind rest is probably one of the areas I fall most short. I rarely let my mind relax from the details of life, love, career, home ownership, service, and the other multitude of responsibilities. I spend more time listing out the details of those areas to keep them under my control, instead of relaxing in the trust that God will keep my mind at peace when I am fixed on him (Isaiah 26:3).
August 8th, 2007 at 1:12 pm
Hopefully soon you will be able to get back to this much needed rest. Kaden and I both love you so much and want you to stay healthy in mind, body, and soul.
September 11th, 2007 at 7:37 am
RC,
I enjoyed reading your post. I suffer from, in my opinion, the worst anxiety disorder known to man. I’ve been seeking many different forms of relieve, church doctors (30), books, video tapes, cd’s, and just talking to anyone that cares enough to listen. I guess my only real reason for leaving this responce is to let you know that you are not alone. If you ever need someone to talk to or just write an email to I’d be glad to listen, and it may help me too. I realize it’s been a long time since you originally posted this, and I hope things are better for you, but I know my anxiety and panic attacks have been getting progressively worse since last November. Anyhow take care brother.
September 11th, 2007 at 9:31 am
Hey Kassy & Kris,
Thank you for your thoughts. I have had some rest since that time. The stresses of having a baby on the way, and so many other things can really wear you down, and did so to me for some time.
Taking the time each night to do relaxation exercises was helpful, but more recently what’s been extremely helpful is spending time in prayer, meditation on God’s word, and journaling my thoughts. I’ve been able to relax in the faith that God has my concerns in His almighty hands, and that even the best I could do to fix the issues wouldn’t compare to his plan for reparation.
Kris, thank you for being so honest. I will be praying for you as I know there are a lot of things on your mind right now.