Sometimes we are so busy in our daily lives that we don’t even think about the relationships we are part of. Other times, like Valentine’s Day in the month of February, relationships can be in the forefront of our thoughts. Whether it’s a holiday or just any day, we should periodically check-in on our most important relationship: the relationship with ourselves.
Just like you would check-in on others, check in on yourself every so often. How are you feeling? How are you – mentally, emotionally, and physically? Acknowledge those feelings. It’s ok to say “I’m tired” or “I’m afraid” – especially with what has been going on in the world this past year. Acknowledging your feelings is not an admission of failure and it is not succumbing to them. In fact, it’s important to acknowledge and process them so that you can healthily move forward.
We expect a lot from ourselves. We expect our bodies to carry us, provide energy for us, and enable us to complete tasks of daily life. From work and our careers to maintaining our household to caring for others – we expect to be able to complete all these things plus more. But in order to do all these things, we need to care for ourselves. This includes taking care of ourselves and making sure we are well – physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s like the instructions on planes to put the mask on yourself first.
How do we do care for ourselves? First, give yourself a break! Allow yourself time to relax, de-stress, and recharge. There are so many options to choose from there absolutely will be something that works for you. You can walk, listen to music, nap, dance, get a massage, practice yoga, meditate, etc. You can find a place where you feel peaceful. Remind yourself that you are not doing nothing; you are recharging.
Make yourself a priority. If that means literally scheduling time on your calendar just for you, then do that. That can be 5 minutes to meditate or a time to go for a walk. Add an app or alarm on your phone to help you remember.
Say no! If you have too much on your plate or feel overwhelmed, or just don’t want to do something, say no. It’s ok to turn things down.
Consider your thoughts and be kind to yourself. Are there things you think about yourself that you would think are mean if you said them to someone else? Work on changing that thought process. Remove the negative thoughts and try replacing them with positive ones. For example: if you feel frustrated because you didn’t accomplish all that you had on your to do list, instead of thinking that you failed to get things done, think about what you did get done. If you got things done that weren’t on the list, add them and check them off as done! If you rested, think about how you are helping your body to recharge and how that is a good thing.
Treat yourself! Send yourself flowers, just because. Do something pampering. Have fun, smile, and laugh whenever you can. Enjoy the moment.
Our relationship with ourselves should be our number 1 priority. It is important to take the time to periodically check-in on yourself and to make sure you are caring for yourself. This time of year and always: love yourself!
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