START A SELF-CARE REVOLUTION
– it’s good to be Queen –
Self-Care Isn’t Just Important, It’s Crucial, You can’t pour from an empty cup!
“Self-care is care provided “for you, by you.” It’s about identifying your own needs and taking steps to meet them. It is taking the time to do some of the activities that nurture you. Self-care is about taking proper care of yourself and treating yourself as kindly as you treat others.”
The holiday season is a busy time with a lot of emotional pressure. As women, we are notoriously bad at putting on our own oxygen masks first. There is a reason we are told by air hostesses to put on our own oxygen masks first…. we cannot help our loved ones without helping ourselves first.
We need to keep ourselves replenished, especially during this time.
When we take on too much, we are the one that suffers at the end of the day.
Your body is an amazing machine that gives you signals when the pressure is getting too high. You may experience headaches, disrupted sleep, digestive upsets, anxiety, depression, or irritability.
Learn to hit the pause button when you need to. Running on empty doesn’t serve you, or those you love, and please let go of perfection.
Some ways to rebalance:
- Make a date with yourself. Spend an hour alone doing something that nourishes you, not work or things on your to-do list.
- Praise yourself when you do something awesome, and never speak badly about yourself.
- Read books and watch movies you enjoy. Watch a Christmas movie or a family favourite.
- Paint or write something that lets out your creative energy.
- Simply unplug, disconnect from all devices….you can do it!!
- Journal – Write in a gratitude journal, I know the importance of this but couldn’t quite make it a habit until I found The Five-Minute Journal. it’s perfect for me as a beginner. In the morning, I write 3 things I am grateful for, and in the evening, I write 3 amazing things that happened that day. Baby steps…
- It only takes 10 minutes to calm the nervous system – Headspace is a great place to start.
- Go for a walk and take time to notice nature.
- Take a quick nap. Only 10 to 20 minutes can reduce your sleep debt and leave you ready for action.
- Take an Epsom salt bath (have a glass of wine or cup of tea) add lavender oil and light some candles….my absolute favourite way to relax.
- Don’t be afraid to say no.
- Be kind to yourself.
- Let go of what you can’t control.
- Breathe – so many of us are shallow breathing, myself included, make time for deep breathing a few times a day. To be honest, I didn’t even know the difference until not too long ago but I must admit I do feel a difference. When I focus on deep breathing versus my shallow, erratic breath, I feel calmer and it is a great way to reset your nervous system.
- Laughter – laughter boosts your immune system, decreases stress, reduces heart disease, improves breathing, acts as a natural pain reliever, and helps you lose weight, some good reasons to laugh!!
I know you’re probably thinking, “Sounds great Tara, easier said than done!” I agree, self-care is often easier said than done, but baby steps, start with one or two that resonate with you and make them a non-negotiable part of your life. Try it for 21 days and see how you feel.
Be gentle and kind, if you miss a day, give yourself the freedom and space to be human; you may not see instant results but your body and mind will thank you.
When we take care of ourselves first, we are in a much stronger place to take care of those we love.
– Kate Hudson.
Try not to get caught up in the latest fad in self-care. Trust me, there are many different varieties, and I have tried most of them, but speaking from experience, do what makes you happy and what resonates with you. The ones I am now consistent with are the things that speak to me and make me feel better about myself.
More sleep, more fun, more laughter, more hugs, more of anything that makes you smile. Self-care is the best form of health care!!
Remember, almost everything will work again if you unplug for a few minutes….including you!
Anne Lamott.
This is a time to celebrate and connect with family and friends to create a healthy, relaxing, and restorative time. My warmest wishes to you and your family this holiday season.
Thanks for reading and keep well,
