A Post for Difficult Times

I’d like to make this post a personal one. I know we all love to read and write, but I also know that many things get in the way of the amount of reading and writing we’d like to do.

So much gets in the way.

I’m going to share with you what I discovered recently that helps me tremendously. I hope this post helps those of you who are struggling, trying to find time for yourselves to do the things you love. If that’s been an issue for you, then I hope you find some good suggestions from this post.

Now, a little about why I decided to write this particular post today. I have terrible Fibromyalgia. The days that are bad, which happen more times than not, unfortunately, stop me in my tracks. It honestly gets so bad, I can’t do a thing– except read.

I become unable to cook, clean, shower (ew, I know), or just about anything. It gets so intense, all I can do is lie down and cry. However, I found something that helps….. I read.

How Does Reading Help with Pain and Issues?

I don’t simply read. I use reading as a way to sooth, heal, and learn.

Let Me Explain…

When I am completely unable to perform even the most simple of tasks, reading is what helps. Reading is what distracts me, sweeping me away for a while, but also keeps my mind active. When nothing else helps—a good book does.

Don’t just read— use reading.

What Do I Mean by, Use Reading?

Whenever I’ve read in the past, it was when I had the time and felt like it. And, that’s wonderful. But, reading can be extremely helpful also.

Consider picking up a book the next time you’re struggling with something emotional or trying. Use reading instead of other choices such as over-eating, medication, smoking, letting anxiety overcome you.

Use Reading to:

• calm anxiety
• focus the mind
• regroup
• cope with issues
• be in the moment
• learn from your favorite authors

Learn from Favorite Authors?

Most of us have a favorite genre’, style, author. Next time you’re reading a book you’re enjoying, keep a notebook and pen handy.

I like to jot down things I like the most about the book I’m enjoying. I write:

• phrases that stand out to me that are especially powerful, unique, humorous, intriguing
• individual words I’d like to remember to utilize in my writing
• certain parts that draw me in
• what I like most about the author’s style
• what I dislike
• how they format their book

These are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

The point I wanted to make with this post is to consider reading as a way to center yourself– like a form of meditation or mindfulness. It can not only help you in a variety of ways, but you can also learn to be a better writer by paying attention and taking notes from your favorite books.

I hope you find this post helpful and try reading as a healing tool.

Happy Writing! Gina