Hey hey ,

There are certain non-negotiables in my life—things that just happen because I don’t (or won’t) consider any other option.

Because let’s be real—being a mom to an autistic teenager is a lot. Some days, it feels like the weight of everything is pressing down on me, and if I don’t make space to breathe, to move, to just be, I can feel myself unraveling.

And I know I’m not alone in this.

We, as women, are so good at carrying everything—other people’s needs, emotions, and expectations. But when it comes to our own well-being?

We hesitate. We second-guess. We tell ourselves we don’t have time.

That’s why I have a few non-negotiables—things that keep me grounded even when life feels overwhelming.

🐶 #1 – My Walks with Milo

Every day, I take my dog, Milo, for a walk. But it’s not just about getting fresh air—it’s about something deeper.

Milo is blind. I am his seeing-eye human.

When we’re out together, I have to be fully present. I can’t rush. I can’t let my mind wander. I have to slow down, watch for obstacles, and guide him safely. And in doing so, he teaches me so much about trust, patience, and resilience.

Milo doesn’t hesitate. He doesn’t let fear stop him. He moves forward with bravery, trusting that I’ll be there to guide him.

And in the process, he teaches me how to move forward too.

🌬️ #2 – Intentional Breathing

I can always tell when I’m stressed because my breath becomes shallow. Sometimes, I even catch myself holding my breath without realizing it—like my body is bracing for something.

When I notice that, I stop. I take a deep inhale, hold it for a moment, and then let it go.

It sounds so simple, but it’s everything.

It shifts my nervous system from fight or flight into calm. It reminds me that I don’t have to hold it all together every second of the day. It gives me space to just be.

📖 #3 – Journaling (Even on My Walks!)

I used to struggle with journaling because I felt like I had to sit down with a pretty notebook and write something profound. But let’s be honest—I don’t always have time for that.

That’s why I started using Rosebud, an app that lets me journal by simply talking into my phone. I do it while I’m walking with Milo, letting my thoughts flow freely.

Some of my biggest realizations happen mid-walk, as I process things I didn’t even know I needed to release. Sometimes, I vent. Sometimes, I cry. Sometimes, I just let the words come and trust that clarity will follow.

And it always does.

These small acts—walking, breathing, and journaling—may not seem like much, but they’ve kept me afloat on my hardest days. They remind me that self-care isn’t about adding more to my plate—it’s about weaving support into the life I already have.

✨I wrote more about this here✨

I also shared three simple lessons I’ve learned from these practices—ones that might help you feel more grounded, too.

Hit reply and let me know, what’s one small, non-negotiable thing that helps you care for yourself? 💛

I’m so grateful to have you here.

Love,

Charity 💕