I made it through a 5-day Ayurvedic cleanse which ended on Tuesday. I’d thoroughly prepared my cupboards (still under renovation) and plastic-coated my countertops (plywood stand-ins for my eventual Caesarstone ones), then gave myself over to a period of reflection and abstinence from Friday to Tuesday.
When I told my friend, also participating in this fall solstice ritual, that I’d scheduled my first swim in six months for Wednesday at my re-opened health club, a museum visit on Friday and my first facial in six months on Saturday, she reflected, “You’re lining up your pleasures.” I smiled.
She shared how her daughter, as a young child, would gather up a sweet treat, and a stuffed animal before snuggling close to her mother for a bedtime story. “She would line up her pleasures. That’s what you’re doing.”
I do make a habit of arranging rewards for myself after challenging projects. Something to look forward to when I’m in the middle and feeling despair. Besides the ‘why’ of what I’m doing, I believe in external motivation as well.
During the height of the quarantine, those pleasures were few and far between. Now that things have opened up a bit, I hope that you’re also giving yourself treats, even if it’s simply for getting through this difficult time.
Jane – I so needed this message at this exact time. Having successfully staged my house and negotiated directly with a buyer, I am now in the throws of clearing out, throwing out, and packing up – no small feat to undertake alone, especially while maintaining a stressful full time job. So first, thank you for reminding me of the despair that can creep up while we are “in the hallway” – no longer fully where we were, but yet not yet fully where we’re going. Second, thank you for the thought that rewarding ourselves with activities or small gifts can make each part of the process not only more bearable, but perhaps even (dare I say it) pleasurable. 😊
@Terry A perfect time for you to keep pleasure in focus. What you are going through it difficult on so many levels – physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. I’m critical to have pleasure on the horizon to make some of the more tedious chores bearable. In fact, don’t wait until you’re entirely through. Mini-pleasures are helpful along the way. Thanks for commenting.
This is wonderful – now I will think of “linkng up my pleasures” while or before doing something challenging. Love, Rán
@Ran I love the expression, too. Didn’t realize I was doing it until she articulated it. Now it can be more conscious.