April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to pause and reflect. How long have you been carrying this weight? Stress creeps in quietly, taking hold until exhaustion feels normal and peace seems out of reach. But does it have to be this way?
We give so much to others, stretching ourselves thin under the weight of expectations, deadlines, and worries. Sleepless nights, tired bodies, and the quiet ache of burnout—we push through, convincing ourselves that this is just life. But it isn’t. It shouldn’t be.
Let go of what drains you— the expectations—the pressure—The impossible standards. Cut the rope. Release the weight that holds you down. Instead, make space for something lighter—rest, enjoy, and the simple act of breathing freely.
Start small. Say no without feeling guilty. Take breaks without explaining. Show yourself the same kindness you give to others. Healing isn’t selfish, it’s necessary.
You don’t need permission to put yourself first. You only need to believe that you deserve to.
Because you do.
Caption by Charles Angelo Andrada, Layout by Al Palomas.
