Keeping Ashley Going

I have been forced to learn a lot about myself during this pandemic. I’ve always valued my time alone, so I was very surprised to find that I struggled being alone during this time. It was something I didn’t see coming. Despite my struggles, I have found ways to keep myself going. These are ten things that have helped me keep my head above water. These are in no particular order...

Streaming Services- I’ve watched so much tv and it has soothed my soul. I had been watching my reality tv, (Growing Up Hip Hop and RHOA) but I finished them. I finally see why yall always talk about cooking shows. Master Chef and Master Chef Jr. are my faves.

My Therapist- I’ve wanted a therapist for years, but it took a global pandemic for me to realize how much I NEEDED one. She has been great to me. She’s very thorough and the way she connects one aspect of my life to another is insane. Searching for a therapist was difficult and I’m still in the beginning stages with mine, but she has been amazing!

Peer Support - Some peers haven’t understood my struggle, while others have truly showed up and showed out for me. I don’t know that I would be able to function without the support of my peers who understand and those who don’t, but are trying. 

Books​​- I had recently rediscovered my love of books. I’ve really been intentional about squeezing in some reading whenever I can. I’m two books away from hitting my 24 book goal for 2020!! Some of the most enjoyable books I’ve read are pictured below. If you’ve read any of them, lets chat! I'm still reading the Vanishing Half...

Baths- I have unearthed the beauty of baths! I’ve always loved them, but I underestimated the power of a good bubble bath. Don't let me have a good bath bomb, too! Talk about euphoric!! I take my books and the world disappears for a little while. 

Cooking- I’ve always enjoyed cooking, but three meals a day...MAAAAAN! I’ve had to budget, plan, and wash a crap ton of dishes!!! I also ate a lot of fast food during this time for the days those dishes were just too much. 

Driving- I try to drive a little each day to enjoy the freedom and to reignite the excitement of having my first car. My first car selfie was extremely unfabulous, but that's ok! 

Drinking- I’m still me. Of course I’ve had a few drinks!! That 1800 Coconut changed my life!

Sleeping​- Quality sleep has been hard to come by. I prefer to sleep at night when it’s dark, but my body has decided that we can take a little nap at night, but we sleep during the day. I’m usually asleep most afternoons.

Calm Room- I turned my bigger room into a Calm Room. It’s still in the process of being designed, but it’s functional for a few things. It’s where I workout and do my naked yoga, when I actually decide to be active. It’s where I go to enjoy peace and quiet, take naps, and just relax! Here are the beginner yoga poses that are hanging up in the Calm Room. 

What are some things you've done to keep yourself going during this time? Comment and let me know :) 

Thanks for reading!