How often do you consider your self-care?
Having a regular self-care practice is more than eating well and exercising. It’s about giving ourselves time and space each day to nurture our spirit and connect inward.
Self-care can look like so many things. It truly is a practice of our own design. When creating a regular self-care practice, it’s helpful to include a number of different activities.
I’ve noticed whether my self-care time is spent doing things on my own, or connecting with the important people in my life, the common denominator is having time and space where I am present and focused more on ‘being’ than ‘doing’.
Some of the gems on my list that are easy to stick with include:
- beginning and ending my day with a gratitude practice,
- getting outside for fresh air and exercise,
- and tucking my kids in at night.
Other activities I enjoy require some pre-planning, such as:
- hair appointments
- massage
- yoga
- and having a heart to heart with a dear friend.
I find it helpful to create reminders for the self-care practices I have a hard time sticking with, things like:
- stretching,
- deep breathing,
- staying hydrated,
- positive self-talk etc.
Carve out a bit of time and create a list of all the activities you enjoy doing that you know will recharge your batteries. The more extensive the list, the better. Pick things that are second nature and also those that push your limits and require some planning. This way you can regularly make a point of putting yourself first. Scheduling time where you make yourself a priority is especially important if you are someone who has a hard time receiving or giving back to yourself.
When we regularly devote time and attention to ourselves, it becomes much easier to give back to others from a place of wholeness and integrity. When we are connected to who we are and like who we are, it becomes second nature to accept and see others for who they are. When we are fulfilled from within, negative emotions like judgment, jealousy and fear begin to fall away.
Self-care is a gift we choose, it is of our own making and when we regularly take good care of our whole selves, the world becomes brighter as a result.
How might you take good care of yourself today?
❤ Emily
#lovinglife
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