This month we’ve talked about how to make self-care changes which will stick, and how to appreciate the blessings of everyday life which is self-care in practice. While we’ve heard these ideas before, it’s “doing” them that’s challenging.
To summarize what we’ve said about making self-care part of our daily routine:
- Set small attainable goals, like 15 minutes a day.
- Break the change into smaller steps.
- Make it part of what’s already in the schedule. Mommie Kate had some great advice on this.
- Intend/visualize what we want to happen.
- Don’t become self-critical of missteps. Learn from the experience and try again.
- Have a positive attitude about self-care. Remember it’s a choice.
- Self-care and self-love gives us the energy to love others. As Laura Nash said, “You can’t give what you don’t possess.”
Now, for the big picture. Self-care is not just a set of skills we practice, it’s an attitude for how we view and approach our lives. With all life’s ups and downs, even in a single 24 hours, there’s much to be appreciated. Often it’s in the small things-sunshine, our children’s smiles, flowers budding in spring or a kind word. When we put our attention on life’s abundance, we feel loved and cared for.
Buddha said, “If we could see the miracle of a single flower, our whole life would change.” Embrace this year with wonder and positive intention. Be grateful for all that is and all that is yet to be. Self-care is a path to health, happiness and awakening the soul. Let’s journey well together.
. He says that reconnecting with our soul’s inner guidance can make our lives easier. Well, mine woke me up last week and I’m resolved to spend more time soaking up the sunshine and appreciating my blessings. My family, friends, comfy home, writing with Ann, work I love , and the wonderful community of women whose lives have touched mine. Each day is a gift. Even in the darkest night, the stars shine.
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