08/08/2026
One thing nursing has never taught me...
..is how to stop caring when I leave work.
You don't just switch it off because your shift's finished.
Some days you go home thinking about a conversation you had, someone who's having a hard time, or wondering how they're getting on. I reckon most folk who work in caring jobs will know exactly what I mean.
The thing is, it's probably not just nurses.
Life has a habit of following us home. Work, family, money, relationships... before you know it, your head's still going when you're supposed to be relaxing.
I've been guilty of just cracking on and telling myself I'd be fine. Sometimes I was. Sometimes I wasn't.
One thing I've learned over the years is that slowing down isn't being lazy. It's part of looking after yourself.
That'll look different for everyone.
For me, it's getting out for a walk, spending time with the family, keeping active, the odd chat about aliens... and, of course, Reiki.
Whatever it looks like for you, don't feel guilty for taking the time. You can't keep pouring from an empty cup.
What helps you switch off at the end of a long day?
