Hey friends,

I’ve just returned from a trip that I never knew I needed but now can’t imagine living without. A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of speaking at the Modern Nurse Festival in Alaska, and I’m so grateful for that opportunity to connect with incredible people in the healthcare community. After the event, I made a decision that felt both radical and necessary: I stayed a few extra days to step away from everything. Let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I took that time to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska with my now-fiancé. In doing so, I gave myself a gift I didn’t realize I needed as much as I did. We all have those moments when we know it’s time to hit “pause” and give ourselves the space to breathe, reset, and simply be.

The Power of Stepping Away

We often hear people talk about the importance of self-care and the need to pour into your own cup (a reminder I’ve given myself and others countless times). But it’s not always as easy as it sounds. Stepping away doesn’t just mean a quick weekend trip or a quiet evening. It means giving yourself permission to disconnect from the constant demands of work, family, and the endless “to-do” list. It means trusting that the world will keep spinning without your constant involvement. When you return, you will come back refreshed, rested, and with a fresh perspective.

For many of us, the idea of taking time away can feel overwhelming. I know it did for me. I had to mentally prepare. I had to organize my thoughts, wrap up loose ends, and create space in my mind to be fully present. But over time, I’ve learned that preparation is part of the process. It’s a necessary step in reclaiming your mental and emotional health.

A Gift to Myself and to Others

The truth is, stepping away isn’t just a gift for you. It’s a gift for everyone around you. When we give ourselves time to recharge, we return to our roles as partners, leaders, friends, and caregivers with so much more to give. The energy we pour into others is richer, more authentic, and not driven by exhaustion or obligation. I’ve realized more and more that stepping away isn’t selfish. It’s survival. It’s the key to showing up for the people who depend on us in the way they truly deserve.

During my time in Alaska, I did something I haven’t done in a long time. I disconnected. I unplugged from my phone, let go of the pressure to “stay on top of everything,” and fully embraced the natural beauty surrounding me. Nature has a way of recalibrating you. The crisp mountain air, the silence broken only by the sound of birds, and the expansive views are an instant reminder of how vast and beautiful this world is. It puts everything into perspective.

And, as life often works out, this trip ended up being even more special than I could have anticipated. After a few days of hiking, exploring glaciers, and watching the stars from the quiet of our cabin, my now-fiancé and I got engaged. It was a moment of pure joy, and I realized that all the time I had taken for myself, time away from my usual hustle and bustle, allowed me to fully absorb and appreciate that beautiful moment. I was present, truly present, and that made all the difference.

Preparation Is Part of the Process

I know how difficult it can be to step away, especially for those of us who feel like we are always needed. The mental preparation required to take a break can feel like another task on your to-do list. But it’s also the first step toward greater mental and emotional freedom. If you’re like me, sometimes you need to organize, prep, and ensure everything is in place before you can fully embrace rest.

That’s okay. It’s part of the process of honoring yourself and your needs. Don’t be afraid to take extra time to get your affairs in order so that when you finally step away, you can truly step away. It is not laziness. It is not a weakness. It is, in fact, a powerful act of self-love and respect.

Give Yourself Permission to Rest

So, my invitation to you today is simple: give yourself permission to step away. Whether it’s a short retreat, a weekend away, or just a few hours to breathe and reset, take the time. You deserve it. When you return, you’ll find that you’re not only more refreshed, but more focused, more present, and more ready to pour into the lives of those around you.

Remember, your cup matters. Protect it. Fill it. Refill it as often as needed. The world will wait. When you return, you’ll show up as a better version of yourself.

Until next time, take care of you.

With love and light,
-Ash