Don't neglect caring for Yourself

As we take steps to live in this different life, the one aspect we tend to neglect is our own self-care. We face the situation and provide for the needs of others but forsake our own needs. So, today we are going to focus on steps to becoming healthier as you deal with changes and new seasons of life. Even the basics are difficult at times especially in the cold winter months.

First, get out of bed and put your feet on the floor. Today, take one step at a time. Make your bed. It allows you to complete your sleep and a task at the same time. You did something already today and made your space healthier. Great job.

Next, refresh your physical body with a shower, bath, or washing off. Brush your teeth and comb your hair. Clean off the night and make yourself fresh every morning so you can face the day. Your physical body needs fuel and hydration. Nourish your body with something healthy and simple. Keep your body hydrated with water and other healthy fluids. Hydration keeps you more focused and replenishes the fluid from your tears and waters your emotions.

Any type of physical movement is needed to keep your body functioning and releases emotions. It is not about a major exercise program, but movement of your body whether it is walking or sitting in a chair and moving whatever part of your body that can move.

The world is loud with so much chatter wanting your attention. Self-care includes quiet moments. Moments where you turn off everything around you, even your thoughts and slowly ground yourself in the One who is greater than yourself. Even if your faith is lacking or you feel you have no faith, give yourself some quiet moments to center your spiritual self. Pray.

Step outside and take a breath of fresh air no matter how hot or cold. Your lungs need outside air to refresh and renew your spirit within. While you are outside, look up. Look at the sky, the trees, the birds. You need to see something that is not made with human hands. When you get low enough in life, you have to look up. Looking up can bring a sense of peace and quiet within your soul.

Interact with a living creature. This could be another person, a pet, nature, or even a house plant. Take a moment to embrace connecting with something outside of yourself. While this may seem counterproductive in self-care, it is a reminder you have value and worth and the ability to connect.

Give yourself permission. Yes, permission to cry, be sad, laugh, do something, do nothing for moments. Self-care is admitting how you feel and allowing yourself to feel that way for a period of time. It is telling yourself, “I’m going to feel sorry for myself for 15 minutes and allow those feelings to be expressed.” Then release them and move forward. When you give yourself permission, you do not live in guilt for feeling a certain way or for not doing anything. You feel it, enjoy the down time, and then move forward. You have worth and appreciate who you are.

Elaine J. Sturtz

Living In The Different