How often do you get to fill your own cup?

 As an adult and parent, I find myself having to make a concerted effort to make time for myself. I've found that making time to connect to my inner-world, to nature, and to my community are all things that I want to prioritize more as I enter my mid-thirties. 

Here are 5 ways I fill my own cup.

1. Waking up early to connect to myself

I love having calm, quiet mornings to myself, before the rest of the house is awake. I try to make time to connect to nature and my inner world during this time and have a list of things that help me feel more centered. Whether it's meditation, watering my plants, journaling, or going for a long walk, I tend to feel more centered throughout my day if I make time for myself in the morning.

2. Making Art

As an illustrator I make art regularly, but there is a difference between working on a paid project, a new design, and making art for the sake of play. When I make time to explore new mediums or test something out while allowing myself to make mistakes, I am able to connect to my inner-child, my creativity, my playfulness. This helps make me feel connected and inspired. 

3. Spending time in nature

I love going to long walks or sitting outside in the morning and taking a moment to watch the trees move in the breeze or to listen to the chirping of birds just starting their day. There's something spiritual about connecting to the earth around us and remembering how miraculous it is that we are all here. It helps me feel grateful, calm, and connected. 

4. Journaling about how I'm feeling

Writing down your thoughts and connecting to your inner-world is a great way to fill your cup. There is a science behind journaling - it is a proven way to improve your emotional well-being and it allows you to slow down and listen to all the different voices in your head. I regularly journal to help declutter my mind and get clarity around how I'm feeling and why. It allows me to create space for various difficult feelings that may come up throughout my day or week. 

5. Making plans with friends

I am definitely an introvert, but we all need to spend time with other people in our community to feel whole. Sometimes working at a coffee shop gives me enough of that connected feeling, but more often than not, I need at least a couple social get-togethers to feel that sense of connectedness. I love catching up with some close friends at a happy hour or co-working during the week. 

How do you fill your cup? Comment below and I'll send you a free download to help you visualize what helps you feel more connected!