5 Ways to Re-Charge After a Writing Project

My late husband told me a story of how a certain country decided people should work seven days a week. Instead of increasing productivity, the experiment had the exact opposite effect. Workers slowed down due to exhaustion and low morale. They went back to a 5-6 day week, and things returned to normal.

All of us need to take a break from the daily grind. Here are some of the ways I kick back and rest:

1.  After a monster-sized project like writing a novel, I take off from writing. Deadline pressure and the fast pace of writing can take a toll on spirit, soul, and body. The most I'll do is write a blog post or journal.

2.  Do the million and one chores I've neglected while operating in super-writer mode. All that stuff piling up can create its own stress. I've washed and ironed curtains, ironed clothing, cleaned closets, cleaned my desk, and restored order to my house.

3.  Sleeping late is a luxury that doesn't happen when I'm birthing what I hope will be that Great American Novel. Staying in bed until 8:00 A.M. on Saturdays and 7:00 A.M. on Sunday is sheer heaven after I've been getting up at 5:00 A.M. every day.

4.  Reconnecting with friends keeps relationships alive and relieves the isolation associated with the writing life. I'll give them a call, go out to lunch, hang out and enjoy their company without looking at the clock.

5.  Spend an extended period of time in prayer and Bible study. I like to make notations in my journal about things that catch my eye. What does that word mean in the original Greek or Hebrew? What do other scriptures say on the same topic?

Gradually, I re-enter the writing life as edits come in, proposals are written, plans are made for book launches, and another book takes shape in my heart. The entire cycle repeats itself, and each part is special in its own way. 

Writers:  What are some of the ways you rest and restore your creative well?

Readers:  How do you re-charge after a particularly busy period in your life?