A Restful Escape to Italy
May started beautifully—with a short vacation (a long weekend) in Italy. We flew to Naples and booked a gorgeous hotel with amazing gardens just outside the city. We visited Vesuvius and Pompeii, and finally explored Naples itself. The vacation was the rest I desperately needed. We even had one completely free day to just relax. Of course, there were some downsides—nothing is ever perfect—but I was truly relaxed, which is sometimes difficult for me, so I count that as a win. You can read more here.
Discovering Joy in Exercising
One of my colleagues recently earned a certification to teach an exercise class for a healthy back and core, and she invited us to join her sessions, which she started right in our offices (we have two little gyms). I was enthusiastic—this is exactly the type of workout I need. My physical health still isn’t great, so I’m not ready for anything too intense, but this class helps with my core and back pain. Honestly, this kind of exercise is great for everyone, especially office workers who sit most of the day. I actually attend the lessons with some of my teammates, which makes it even more fun.
Celebrating May’s Holidays with Family
We had two national holidays in May—the first and the eighth. The first was used for our Naples vacation, and for the second, we decided to take a little trip with my sister and her dog. We drove to a small village outside the city and walked through the woods and meadows. It was beautiful, but unfortunately, it triggered my seasonal allergies, which did not make me happy. I suspect June will be even worse. Yay. But more about that trip here.
Gardening Surprises
May is also the month for gardening. I got some tomato and pepper plants from my mother-in-law, and then bought hot pepper plants for my husband (habanero and jalapeño), along with some lavender. I hope everything survives on our terrace. Until mid-May, the plants stayed inside due to cold nights, but then I replanted them into bigger pots outside. It looks like two or three tomato plants didn’t make it, but that’s life.
On the bright side, last year we bought strawberry plants, and they started blooming early this year—now we already have some strawberries! I thought they were standard ones, but it turns out we accidentally bought wild strawberries. They’re still delicious, and we’ve already harvested some.
You can read about my gardening here.
A Successful Shopping Spree
We also had the chance to go to a discount event at a major shopping mall—and we were successful! I could hardly believe it. We bought three pairs of shoes for my husband (which is almost impossible sometimes) and a few things for me—a waistcoat from the winter sale and new pajamas (my old ones had holes… I think my husband minded the holes more than I did). I hope we won’t have to go shopping again for at least a few months. You can read more about my shopping spree here.
Sister Time and New Recipes
I also spent some quality sibling time with my sister—watching a movie and just chatting. It was lovely. My husband bought protein powder so we can add more protein to our meals (I’m trying to gain weight—see more here—and my husband is trying to build muscle, since he’s a runner). I tried making protein pancakes, and my sister was the guinea pig. We both liked them. Especially with ham and cheese—they were delicious. Later, my husband tried them and didn’t notice any difference, which made me laugh (and surprised me a bit, but at least he liked them).
Family Celebrations and Mindful Moments
May is also a month of family celebrations—my mum has her name day. She took us to a small concert in a village just outside the city. It was completely free, held outdoors in the little village square. One of our favorite country singers performed, and it was very nice. We talked, we listened, and mum was so happy with her presents (I love how happy she always is—one of the reasons I love giving gifts. Even if it’s something small she wanted, she usually forgets and is so delighted). I spent most of the afternoon crocheting—perfect for such an occasion. It calms my mind, and I can focus on the conversation or the concert while my hands are busy. After the concert, we went home. A perfect celebration.
Building Confidence with Presentation Skills
I also had the opportunity to attend a training session on presentation skills. It was truly amazing, especially since I usually don’t like presenting in front of people and was very stressed about the training. It was just one day, but I learned a lot. The morning was filled with little exercises and some theory, while the afternoon was reserved for us to actually present and get feedback. A few days before, we were assigned homework to prepare a short speech, so it wasn’t all improvisation (thank goodness!). I survived, got great feedback, and received helpful pointers for next time. Soon, I’ll have a whole hour to present my topic (CX in our project) for my colleagues in Jure, so this was great preparation. You can read more here.
Weddings, Parties, and Navigating Social Overwhelm
We’re attending three weddings this year, and for one of them, my husband and I are the maid of honor and best man. So May was the time for bachelor and bachelorette parties. I heard the future groom enjoyed the one my husband planned—they went to a place inspired by the TV competition Fort Boyard (luckily without all the insects and wild animals). I planned a picnic, boat ride, and board games at a restaurant for my friend (we’re that kind of group).
Unfortunately, three days before the party, I fell ill. Nothing serious, just a nasty cold. I even took a sick day (as an office worker, I could have worked from home, but I felt too sick and spent the afternoon sleeping). So I couldn’t attend, which was very sad. But I saw the photos and videos, and it looked amazing. I’m looking forward to hearing all the stories (I’m writing this while still sick, so I haven’t seen anyone yet).
The first weekend of June is the first wedding (not the couple I wrote about above), so fingers crossed that I’ll be healthy by then!
Listening to Your Body: Self-Compassion and Letting Go of Guilt When You’re Unwell
Getting sick is never convenient, and for many of us—especially those who are sensitive, introverted, or self-reflective—it can trigger a complicated mix of emotions. I know I’m not alone in feeling guilty when illness forces me to slow down. There’s a little voice that whispers, “You should be doing more,” even when my body is clearly asking for rest.
Honoring Your Body’s Signals
One of the most important lessons I’m learning is to listen to my body, even when my mind wants to push through. Rest isn’t laziness; it’s a vital part of healing. When I’m unwell, I try to notice what my body truly needs—sometimes it’s sleep, sometimes it’s a warm cup of tea, and sometimes it’s simply permission to do nothing at all.
If you’re like me and find it hard to slow down, here are a few gentle reminders (even for myself):
- Rest is productive. Your body is working hard to heal, even if you’re not “getting things done.”
- It’s okay to say no. Cancelling plans or asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it means you’re taking care of yourself.
- Small comforts matter. Cozy blankets, a favorite book, or soothing music can make a big difference in how you feel.
Letting Go of Guilt and Productivity Pressure
It’s easy to feel like we’re letting others down or falling behind when we need to take a sick day. But the truth is, pushing through only delays recovery—and can make us feel worse in the long run. I’m learning to remind myself that my worth isn’t measured by my productivity, especially when I’m not well.
Some things that help me let go of guilt:
- Communicate honestly. Let your team or loved ones know you’re unwell. Most people understand, and it takes the pressure off.
- Set realistic expectations. It’s okay if your to-do list waits. Focus on the essentials and let the rest go.
- Practice self-kindness. Speak to yourself the way you would to a dear friend who’s sick—with patience and compassion.
Creating a Gentle Sick-Day Routine
When I’m under the weather, I try to create a little ritual for myself. I gather my favorite teas, a soft blanket, and something light to watch or read. I give myself permission to nap, to do nothing, and to heal—without judgment.
If you’re struggling with guilt or frustration while sick, remember: your needs are valid. Listening to your body and treating yourself with compassion is not only okay—it’s necessary. You deserve the same care and understanding you so willingly offer to others.
How do you practice self-compassion when you’re unwell? I’d love to hear your gentle rituals or words of encouragement in the comments.
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