A few nights ago, I found myself wide awake … again.

Not because I had caffeine too late or forgot to turn on the air conditioning in the bedroom 🛏️. 

No, this time it was mental unrest … 

… those lingering, half-formed images that stay just below the surface and hijack peaceful sleep.

Here’s what happened …

My husband and I were trying to find a show we could enjoy together. He loves suspenseful TV. 

I lean toward the Hallmark channel because I know I’m sensitive. What I take in … especially right before bed … sticks with me. 

It always has … but I wasn’t always as aware as I am now.

I still remember the week after I saw Titanic 🚢 … no sleep.

And I haven’t gone past my ankles in the ocean since seeing Jaws fifty years ago.

He convinced me that I would LOVE Scandal. “It’s not too intense,” he said. “You’ll be fine.”

I wasn’t.

In his defense, Livvie is a “bad ass” gladiator in a suit. I love that about her but the world she works and lives in is WAY TOO DARK to even dip my toes in.

After a few peaceful months of reliable deep sleep, I was suddenly waking again with disturbing images in my mind … 

… and a head full of what I call open loops.

Unanswered questions. Emotional residue. 

And I was mad. 

At myself.

At him.

At the whole idea that this is what people call entertainment.

But here’s my truth: I can’t afford to experiment with stressors that don’t suit my system. 

And, most likely … neither can you.

… for body, mind or soul.

We’re learning to take responsibility for our choices … what we …

  • eat 🍽️
  • watch 📺
  • listen to 👂🏻
  • and absorb. 🧽

… it might be your diet.

This is a diet that no amount of intermittent fasting can fix. You may need a media fast to support your mental and emotional well-being. 

You are your own PCP (Primary Care Person), and your choices matter … more than the mainstream media would have you believe.

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