Everyone has a different definition for freedom. For some it means a day off from work. Others may think of the free country they live in and the benefits they enjoy because of that. For mothers, it’s the time they have when their kids are asleep.

I want to focus on the freedom of the spirit. This, in and of itself, may have different meanings for people so let me explain what I mean.

I am talking about that feeling that you have when you don’t feel the stresses of the world weighing on your shoulders. For many people this can come in a variety of ways.

To explain a little better; I’m talking about doing something that makes you happy, lets you forget all the everyday stresses that you feel, and gives you peace and tranquility. This is an ultimate feeling of peace, almost impossible to describe.

Let me give you an example. For me, I love being out in nature. When I’m doing something out in nature it helps me focus on the wonderful beauty of the earth and I forget the stresses of the world. Things such as money, work, bills, etc. fade away from my memory as I’m focusing on the peaceful feelings that I feel in nature.

I had the wonderful opportunity to have this feeling today. Usually I’m able to get out and do something at least one time a week. I’m trying my best to incorporate this into my life more often, but at least I can do it once a week.

I took a drive up the nearest canyon and went climbing with my brother. Can climbing be hard and difficult? Oh, absolutely. It doesn’t stress me out though. My energy is one that needs those types of challenges and such challenges actually help to relax my brain.

Take a moment and think of what helps you escape stress. It could be yoga, hiking, camping, visiting friends and loved ones, writing, art, etc. Countless activities help people relieve the day-to-day stresses that we feel.

The culture in the United States, and even in much of the world, has shifted a lot to where people don’t take enough time for themselves. This time that we should be taking is called self care, and we need to practice it more often.

I’m sure we’ve all had that boss or co-worker that is stressed out to the max and projects that stress onto his/her subordinates/colleagues. It might be a family member who keeps bringing stress home, who knows. Everyone’s situation is different.

Whatever the stress is, it needs to be worked on. The best way to do that is with self care. I’m not saying be selfish, there’s a difference. You still need to give some time to your loved ones, job, etc. What I’m saying is that you should be taking some time every day to yourself to help yourself rejuvenate. 15 minutes a day and a couple hours a week. One full day a month. One week out of the year.

Okay, those are some examples. The point is that you have to take a break; if you don’t take that break then your spirit will start to break. Take that break; let your spirit have some freedom. You will see your attitude and life improve, relationships with others improve, etc. You need this, trust me.