You should not build a camp on the mountain where there is no water.

-The Book of Ninja

Ninja wisdom says: camp near water. On the literal level, this makes perfect sense, of course. The Book of Ninja says, “Even if you find mountains that seem good for a battle camp…it (is) essential to know if there is water or not.” When you’re too far away from water, you’re already compromised. Your mission is already in question.

Water is a basic need. Humans can’t go two days without water. And most people experience the effects of dehydration within hours. Dehydration makes you tired, confused, and can cause injury because of poor muscle performance. Your brain swells, you can have a seizure, go into shock, or have kidney failure. Without water, we die.

We need water, as much as we need breath. And sleep. And when we don’t have these basic things, we cannot possibly do our work.

So don’t build a camp where there is no water.

In other words: don’t set up your life where your basic needs aren’t met.

That’s true for your relationships.

For your job.

For wherever you give your time and energy.

Do. not. set. up. your. life. where. your. basic. needs. aren’t. met.

If you do, you will be compromised. Your mission will be in question. You cannot possibly accomplish whatever it is you want to accomplish if your survival is a question mark.

In other words: practice self-care. In the world of Instagram and trigger warnings, I realize self-care has become a bit cliche. I know it can feel tied to consumerism and some bland version of white rich indulgence. I’m not talking about that.

There is real wisdom in knowing where to set up the camp that is your one precious life. And it is not– I repeat, not– where there is no water for your soul to drink.

So if you think you may be camped in a parched place, consider moving closer to a stream that will give you life.

And if you’re not sure, here’s a ninja trick. The ninja would place a bird feather in the ground. If there was water anywhere nearby, dew drops would eventually accumulate on the feather. Find your bird feather. Stick it in the ground. Check for dew.

No dew, no deal.

No dew, new digs.

OK?