Do you remember crowded stands at ballfields where a snack and drink were referred to as “refreshments”? In our fast-paced, frenetic world, aren’t we all in need of a little refreshment?
Refreshment is defined as the act of refreshing; the state of being refreshed.
This week, our family is enjoying a time of refreshing, togetherness, and rest. Although you might not realize it, you also need time to refresh, restore, replenish, reinvigorate, renew, and reignite.
Following are thoughts on refreshment:
Physical Restoration
In the last two years, I’ve made it my goal to go to bed earlier. At first, it felt odd, but now, I look forward to getting in bed, reading a little, and then turning off the light.
Our frenzied culture teaches constant motion via multiple activities; therefore, physical restoration must be intentional. Realize the benefits of physical restoration (physical stamina, alertness, increased brain function, enhanced creativity) and make sleep a priority.
Scheduling time for rest is important. If your calendar has no unscheduled days, you aren’t allowing time for rest.
Mentally Replenish
A good reason exists for dubbing the television the “boob tube.” Too much time in front of the TV turns your mind to mush. And meaningless commercials rot the brain. Instead, opt for conversation, reading, writing, or some other creative pursuit. Feeding yourself mentally is just as important as physical food.
Don’t be lulled into thinking time on social media, or scrolling websites, replenishes mentally. One of the best ways to mentally refresh is to take a break from your phone and computer. Spend time in nature, listening, looking, and pondering.
Creatively Reinvigorate
Creativity allows you to process emotions, stimulates senses, allows tangible expression, and reduces anxiety and stress. Often, creativity has the added benefit of helping you problem-solve, even when you don’t realize that is happening.
Creativity takes many forms. You may think you aren’t creative, but each of us has gifts and talents. Perhaps you haven’t identified or utilized yours yet. Reinvigorate, or identify, your creativity and enjoy a sense of accomplishment.
Relationally Renew
Have you observed a family or couple in a restaurant recently? Chances are each person is looking at their phone. No conversation is apparent, and as soon as they finish eating, everyone is engrossed in their phones again. No wonder relationships fail!
If you want to renew relationships, talk, listen, and pay attention. Let others know they are important to you by engaging in meaningful conversation. Be available. Relive shared memories. Spend time together with phones on silent mode and reconnect.
Spiritually Reignite
Often, we neglect spiritual refreshment. Perhaps reigniting spiritually feels less urgent so we push it aside, but spiritual renewal is an important part of refreshing the soul.
Now is a good time to re-engage spiritually through prayer, reading, and quiet reflection. Each time you nourish yourself spiritually, you engage with God, the giver of all wisdom and strength. Refresh spiritually and ignite forward motion.
“Those who feel tired and worn out will find new life and energy, and when they sleep, they will wake up refreshed” (Jeremiah 31:25-26 CEV).
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is a writer, blogger, speaker, and freelance editor. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotionals published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
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