I sat in the back of a comfy SUV with two of my beloved road moms in the front. We were on our way to spend the afternoon at Yellowstone National Park, and as we drove I felt my “peace zone” spread over me. Without a home base, I find myself feeling relaxed and experiencing the comforts of home in many different places, usually in the care of others, and usually as the result of prioritizing care for myself.

I had left the after-party early the night before to ensure a good night’s sleep, ate a good breakfast, and did some reflective writing in the car. I knew this recipe would mean a clear head and the physical comfort necessary to fully enjoy this experience. It was such a gift: a whole day to explore Yellowstone with a local guide, laughter, great lunch, stops for pictures, and the option to nap, journal, or break out into song at any second. Truly a perfect day, and I’m relieved to have the content mind and body to fully enjoy it.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned unequivocally in this travel year, it’s to prioritize self-care before all else. Budgeting time for yourself is really hard for perfectionists, because often it feels like wasted time. When you wake up from a nap or leave a gym session and see the list of to-do items still looming, it’s easy to feel guilty and regretful for taking the time for yourself. This year has taught me that none of those tasks, practice sessions, shows, meet-and-greets, or computer work would be possible or enjoyable if I’m drained and overwhelmed. There’s just no point in doing my “job” or living such a fun life if I’m not going to do it well, or if I’m spending the journey tired, uncomfortable, or unhappy. Now I notice that a 10-minute nap allows for a much more enjoyable show, and that a good gym workout is a quick stress remedy.

Body, mind, and spirit are all delicate facets of making us comfortable and happy, and they need to be fed and nurtured.

There’s plenty of productivity that could have happened on this day in Yellowstone, but given the previous overwhelming weekend in Montana and my feelings of “experience overload” (link here), I was happy to succumb to tiredness and let my road moms nurture me for the day. No heavy thoughts, worry about meals, or care about clothes or make-up. Just bed-head, sing-along oldies, and a lot of roaming Elk. At first I wasn’t thrilled with the unglamorous nature of these photos, but now I can look back and see a relaxed, happy, and content version of myself that exudes a different energy than the “On-stage Diana.” I can appreciate this version too. Thanks to Kelly and Kim for the beautiful day, and the great photog skills!

Here’s my self-care list, and I’d highly recommend making your own. I try to make sure several happen every day, and choose which ones based on what discomfort I’m feeling. Melancholy may be tiredness and cured by a little caffeine, or it might just be post-show “adrenaline withdrawal” cured by a little time journaling. Often I squeeze these things into convenient crevices of time like on flights, before bed, or in the half hour between sound check and the show.

My self-care is:

• • SLEEP

• • Calling my mom or a friend

• • Journaling/Reflecting

• • Laughing with my band

• • Listening to a book/podcast

• • Letting myself be cared for

• • Going to the gym

• • Having a drink

• • Eating the foods that make me feel good

• • Shopping

• • A little caffeine

• Yoga/Stretching/Meditation/Deep Breathing

Books that helped with this:
“Why We Sleep” – Matthew Walker
“The Gifts of Imperfection” – Brenee Brown
“The Plant Paradox” – Steven Gundry

Be kind to yourselves, drriifters 💙🌏💨
Diana