The Prescription We Forgot: Flexibility, Joy, and Blue Skies

These are not just words, but a way of life that we often overlook in our pursuit of productivity and routine.

Life is a tapestry woven with small moments, each one a unique thread. As cliche as it may sound, I was reminded of this truth last night. For a little over an hour, everything was carefree. A spontaneous picnic outside was a delightful experience, under the canvas of blue skies, spring temperature, and a gentle absence of breeze.  In Kansas, such moments are rare and precious!

The fresh air and sunlight were needed after being inside on such a beautiful day. While I did pop outside any chance I had yesterday, it was rejuvenating to be in the sunlight for a prolonged period of time.  Medicine should be healing, so why not move the clinic outside?! 

If anyone reading this has found a way to do so while being HIPAA compliant, please let me know! I would be interested. 

For a little over an hour, time stood still. 

I watched kids laugh, run, play, and climb trees together.

Their state of being carefree induced my state of being carefree. 

Their happiness induced mine.

Their state of flexibility and lack of concept of time reminded me that time is artificial.

There was no stress. When it got dark, it was time to go home. 

We got home late.  Ooops! Bedtime was thirty minutes ago. Oh well. 

Kids continued to play.  

No, I’m usually pretty strict about bedtime, but it felt right. That’s where the energy was. 

Again, there was no stress. With some redirection, kids went to bed and finally drifted off.

What I learned: The sheer joy of being present, embracing the moment, and slowing down. Kids are amazing and some of the best teachers in this regard. 

Looking back on the whole evening and experience, I look forward to continued Spring weather and even summer. 

-More outside time. 

-Grilling season and entertaining.

-Impromptu roadtrips! Even daytrips! [Key word: Impromptu.]

Conversations Heal.  

Impromptu everyday conversations are fantastic! These unplanned, casual chats often lead to unexpected insights or moments of connection. While it may seem nonsensical, sometimes, it's easy to get caught up in our heads and forget to engage with our bodies and hearts fully. When fragmented in this way, we can overlook life's simple pleasures. But these impromptu conversations can help us reconnect and appreciate the beauty of the present moment. 

-Make friends and keep friends.

-Build community and support community. It is beyond brick/mortar/zip codes. 

-Remember, we’re humans first! 

What Watching Kids Play Taught Me

Even after a long day at school, the kids’ energy continued! There was no multitasking, just running, laughing, and connecting. On some twisted level, there is probably some argument that it is multitasking, but honestly, it was just being human, being a kid, being present. The sight and sound of the laughter were endearing. I GOT TO BE A KID AT THAT TIME!

-Be curious.

-Play.

-Be present!

-Be flexible!

-Watch cartoons and have an occasional ‘yes’ day!

-Embrace play.

-Embrace sitting on the ground and running the risk of hives! [We have meds for that!]

-Be human. Be kind to others and yourself. Connect!

-Slow down and truly live in the moment.

-Love yourself and your neighbor. 

-Love your inner child!

-Be mindful [that is what all the above describes, at least in my head as it comes out as words.