It has been about 48 hours since landing home and I am reminiscing on my time away in Greece. While this substack is not a travel blog time away does open up doors for self-discovery.
Journal snippet from 7/11 “Last night I had a pit in my stomach. Why am I traveling across the world? Alone? Testing myself for what reason…”
Journal snippet from 7/25 “It’s my final night in Greece — out to dinner where vibes are high. People are happy, together and here I am - on a date with me. I am happy. And I am not scared of that word. Happiness is a beautiful thing. In this moment I am as happy as can be.”
Travel, like everyday life, includes the wide range of human emotions. Greece brought up uncertainty, fear, exhaustion, joy & elation to name a few.
Screen Time Plans vs Reality
I made a conscious decision to disconnect while away. Leaving my lap top at home made the no computer part easy. Though the first 48 hours of my trip, I still had to tie up some loose ends emailing and texting through my phone.
After I finished what I “needed” to get done, I struggled to shut down the “work” part of my brain as ideas formulated along with general to-do’s. At some point, there was a complete switch and I reveled in travel mode. My work brain switched on again a few days before I got home. I love what I do and that said, for the few days without work thoughts, I am grateful.
In general… I needed my phone for maps, communication and as a camera. And some evenings, against all scientific studies telling us that blue light before bed is less than ideal, I wanted to scroll through photos on my phone or go on instagram, and with self-compassion, realized that is perfectly okay.
To say I had the time of my life while away is an understatement, screen time included.
Vacation + Reintegration
Vacation is a privilege in so many ways. I soaked up solo travel and time with friends and however cheesy it sounds - I have memories that will last a lifetime. While away, I took care of my body and continued routines that I do at home so I did not feel off kilter.
And upon returning Wednesday night, I stayed awake as late as possible to get back on Eastern time and prioritized sleep. Thursday morning I went on a nature walk before starting work and my first client session was not until the afternoon, in case I had needed more sleep.
Time away is essential.
How you take care of yourself during and after vacation is crucial too.
xoxo,
Amanda
PS In case no one told you today, I love you
PPS We All Feel Support Groups are forming, if you or a friend want to join virtually this Fall, reach out here and schedule a time to speak 💕