Sometimes we expect too much from ourselves. 

Push too hard, relax too little.

The crusty little general inside barking out more orders than wishes,

Not letting you get the rest you need, 

to heal your tired soul.

At times like that you can 

feel burdened 

and overwhelmed.

That is when it’s time to listen,

Breathe.

Stop.

Remember the feel of running down the lane, 

chased by the wild bubbling of the night in your heart,

Remember the glory of smooth water as you dove into the depths of the warm green water, mouthfuls of lake bed causing you to sputter when your gills didn’t appear as you had believed they would.

Wind whipping through your hair, maelstrom swirling, firestarter in your soul.

Soft tickles from the litter of kittens on your face, scratchy sandpaper tongues and tiny pinpricks batting.

Breathe 

and just remember 

sensations,

All six senses open to the world.

Exhale.

Release.

Repeat.