The Power of Camping & Self-Care in Healing Relationships

Finding Calm in Chaos: The Power of Camping and Self-Care in Healing Relationships

Life has been a whirlwind lately, and I’ve had to take a step back from some of my usual routines, including these weekly updates. But even in the midst of the busyness, I’ve been reminded of the importance of staying connected. It feels so good to be back and sharing with you again, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to open up about something that’s been on my heart.

Spending time with family can be one of life’s greatest joys, but it can also bring challenges, especially when past hurts have left relationships frayed. For some, every moment with family is a treasure, but for others, extended time together can stir up old wounds, leading to uneasy feelings that are hard to shake.

Recently, I embarked on a camping trip with my oldest son. Our relationship is one that has seen its share of difficulties, and we’re both working hard to rebuild trust. However, I often find myself struggling to let go of the past. It’s easy to let old behaviors cloud my perception, making it difficult to see the progress we’re making. But I’m learning to shift my focus—to see the good in him, to recognize the changes he’s making, and to appreciate the effort he’s putting into our relationship.

In this process, I’ve realized how crucial it is to take care of myself from the inside out. Whether it’s through supplements, clean eating, or other healthy habits, self-care has been a vital part of my journey. It’s not just about maintaining physical health; it’s about achieving the mental clarity and emotional balance that allows me to approach challenges with a more open heart and a clearer mind.

Being around his family can sometimes feel chaotic—partly because they have two energetic young boys, partly because he seems to attract chaos, and partly because we’re all still figuring out how to navigate this new version of our relationship. Spending multiple days together, just us, was a real test of patience and understanding. I knew I needed time to myself, time to connect with God, and time to clear my thoughts. The state campground we stayed at was the perfect setting for this, even with those relentless mosquitoes. Whenever I felt overwhelmed, I’d take their dog, Gracie, and go for a long walk.

These walks became my sanctuary. They offered me the space to step away from the tension, let my emotions surface, and find peace. It’s in moments like these that I’m especially thankful for the way I prioritize my well-being—mentally, emotionally, and physically. The right supplements and self-care practices help me stay grounded, giving me the strength to process my feelings and the clarity to release them.

Our trip wasn’t perfect—we all had moments of friction—but we worked through it. We found the good in each other and took steps toward healing our relationship. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the toughest times, there’s always something worth holding onto, something that can bring us closer to the people we love.

As you navigate your own challenging moments with loved ones, remember to take care of yourself, from the inside out. Step away when you need to, find your own space to reflect and recharge, and focus on the progress being made, no matter how small. With a little patience and a lot of love, we can all find our way back to the good that’s always there, waiting to be discovered.