Clean & Pristine: A Case For Getting Dirty

Last month, on a particularly humid day, I went for a long run and came back absolutely drenched in sweat. Because I was dogsitting, I was immediately inundated with fluffy puppies eager to lick every inch of my wet legs. I peeled my socks off and went to the back porch to stretch, dragging two velcro dogs with every step.

All this is to say that by the time I was walking upstairs to shower, I was covered in dog hair, leaves, and general outdoor grime. Long hot showers never feel so good as they do in moments like this. I changed into a clean outfit, rubbed moisturizer into my face and felt my body resetting to a place of not just basic hygiene but complete spa relaxation. 

And then I went downstairs, was greeted with jumping circles at the stair gate, and within minutes was on the ground once more, rolling around with two very happy dogs.

Oh I love how I feel when I shower after being outside, sweaty, and dirty. Love feeling cozy and clean and knowing that I’m in for the evening. But how sad would it be if that momentary feeling stopped me from crawling across the floor with two dogs who would do anything for me?

Our bodies are not meant to be kept in some pristine condition at all times. We are meant to go for walks when it rains because clothing can dry. And we are meant to lay in the park without a blanket because we have shampoo at home. And we are meant to roll around on the floor with two dogs not just because we have face wash in the bathroom but because it makes the dogs happy. Because it makes us happy.

This week, we invite you to get comfortable getting dirty. Let yourself make a mess. Enjoy cleaning up. And then dive in again.