The Rest Rx For More Self-Love

February is a great month to check in on your self-care routines. It's not only Heart Month but mid way through is Valentine's Day. Great reminders to find more ways to love on yourself so you experience more joy & ease each day.

Whether you’re a caregiver of little ones, old ones, sick ones, or furry ones, it’s so easy to neglect your own self-care (especially when those you nurture are vulnerable or ill).

Just like when the flight attendant says to “put on your oxygen mask first”, putting your self-care first is security that you’ll have enough “oxygen” (i.e. good health and energy) left in your tank to help those who need you the most.

It’s common among nurturers to get off track.  The more simple you can make your practices, the less you’ll have to monitor yourself. 

When you realize you’ve gotten off track, start back up right away without beating yourself up.

Your self-care doesn’t have to be a fancy spa appointment either.  Something as simple as speaking more kindly to yourself is an act of self-love.

Here’s a beautiful way to start.  Try it right now.  Say the Lovingkindness Meditation out loud to yourself:

May I be happy.

May I be safe.

May I be free of physical pain and suffering.

May I be able to recognize and touch harmony and joy in myself.

May I nourish wholesome seeds in myself.

May I be healthy, peaceful, and strong.

How does that feel in your body? I find it calming. It relaxes and makes my body feel more open and supported.

Deep Breath, Ahhhhh.  Doesn’t it feel good to say these words to yourself?

Pull it out anytime you’re beating yourself up about something, need a pick me up, or have monkey mind (overwhelmed with daily stressors and to do’s). 

You can also try it the following ways…

Breathe With It:  Close your eyes.  Put your hand on your heart.  Take 3 deep belly breaths. Say the Lovingkindness Meditation silently to yourself.  Close with 3 more deep belly breaths.  Sit and breathe as long as feels good to you.

Spice It Up: Say the Lovingkindness Meditation to yourself in the mirror while you get ready each morning.  This might feel uncomfortable or intense at first.  Just keep doing it.  It’ll get easier as your self-love and acceptance grows.

Spread the Love: You can say it for other people you care about as well but only after you’ve said it for yourself first.  You can even expand it to strangers or a larger community.  When you say it for others, change the word “I” to the name of the person (or group) you would like to say it for. Example: May (name of loved one or group) be happy.  May (he/she/they) be safe.

OK, no excuses, it's time to be kind to yourself. Do one thing that brings you joy before you move on with your day.
 
You're worth it!
Mollie
 
P.S. If you're worn out, burned out, or just in need of a time out, our free 3 Day Rest Adventure is for you. Say Yes To Rest