The Pause That Protects You

🖋️ The Lioness Journals | September 22, 2025

The busy days of summer may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean life slows down. As we step into fall, many of us are still juggling full schedules, carrying stress, and racing from one commitment to the next. That’s exactly why this season is the perfect invitation to pause—to breathe intentionally, to notice the small joys, and to give yourself the gift of stillness.

Autumn is one of my favorite seasons. The cooler air, the colorful leaves, and evenings by a firepit always bring me back to reflection. Fall is when I naturally take stock of the year—celebrating what I’ve accomplished and gently considering what’s still left unfinished. It’s a season to pause, ponder, and practice self-care. And let’s be clear: pausing isn’t laziness; it’s protection and power.

Of course, reflection doesn’t always come easy. Sometimes when I pause, I feel a wave of angst or even fear. I have to shift my perspective—choosing to see how much I’ve already navigated, rather than only focusing on what’s left undone.

Just as the seasons shift, so do our lives—new jobs, new relationships, new homes, new responsibilities. Every change demands energy, and that’s why caring for ourselves is not optional. It’s essential. And that’s how I use the pause—as protection from being swept away by the chaos of everyday life.

This week, I encourage you to give yourself 5–10 minutes of daily self-care. That’s it—just a small, intentional pause each day. It doesn’t have to be the same time or even the same ritual. Here are some ideas to spark your inspiration:

• Sit outside and listen to the sounds of nature.
• Savor a warm drink—hot chocolate, spiced cider, or your favorite tea.
• Cuddle or play with your pets.
• Meditate, journal, or color with crayons.
• Try deep breathing (4-2-6 method: inhale for 4, hold for 2, exhale for 6).
• Light a candle and listen to soothing music.
• Take a soaking bath with epsom salts.
• Read a book or simply rest. 

Today, my pause is coloring. It reminds me of childhood and never fails to bring a smile to my face.

🌸 What’s one small pause you’ll choose today? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear.

— With Gratitude,
Ronda 💛

📖 Want More?
If this resonates with you, and you’d like more ideas for self-care and self-growth, explore the 35 empowering words inside Roar Like a Woman. Each word is designed to help you embrace your truest, most powerful self.

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