At work, I eat lunch at my desk almost everyday.  I have work friends, but I prefer the time to read, browse Pinterest, etc.  Sometimes I even work while eating or cut my hour long break down and get back to work.

I’m not a workaholic.  Far from it.  I’ve just always been a solitary individual because of my introvert personality.  You have to be pretty darn interesting for me to crave your company over the peace of my solitude.

Recently, a visit with my doctor confirmed what I already knew – that I was stressed out.  I’m that person who’s thoughts are constantly racing.  I tend to worry (like many women) over everyday life issues that we all face.  I’m also a recovering perfectionist and former control freak.  It takes while for me to wind down at night and especially if I’ve had an exciting day or I’ve been socializing.

I’m also a Type A introvert, as well as a HSP (highly sensitive person).  I like to get things done, but I can get easily overwhelmed by it (I know, crazy combination right?!)  All three of these personality traits can be strengths, but there are many weaknesses especially when you don’t take time for self care.  I thought I was doing myself a favor by going to the spa, but one day isn’t enough.

I’m learning how to live in a more relaxed mental state every day.  I’ve been de-stressing more since my doctor’s visit.  More prayer, taking baths, listening to relaxing music, exercising regularly, and going to bed earlier, but I also wanted to find a little oasis at work.  I knew I needed to get away from my desk during lunch.

Our break room is tiny and gets crowded so that wasn’t an option.  The cafe and courtyard would be great, but many people hang out there during lunch and when the weather is nice.  I wanted a little hideaway…my own little piece of heaven…and I did!  The photos featured in this post are of my new secret spot and it’s nearby.  How could I have missed this gem all these years working here? 🙂

As a Jesus follower, I know that I need to chill out and let God handle things in my life, but it’s a process.  I guess it’s human nature to attempt to handle everything in our lives.  I’m not nearly as uptight as I used to be and I’m glad about that.  Slow progress is better than no progress.

I need to rest in Him more and that is my goal right now.  Focus on one thing at a time and let God fill in the gaps and do only what He can do.  It can be hard in this fast paced world we live in to find places of rest and certainly to live in that rest, but I’m determined to make it a lifestyle and not just a passing moment.

Here are some scriptures that help me when I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with life.  I don’t know about you, but I need to be reminded of the greatness of God’s rest often.  My prayer is that one day I won’t need to be reminded at all!