I was talking with some friends the other night at my Tiniest Thai supperclub about how so many people just don't GET what real self care is all about.
Think it's about lighting a candle and having a bath and talking about how 'spiritual' they are :)
Well, all those things are very NICE, sure, but they're not self care IN THEMSELVES.
I have only recently embarked on a non-negotiable regime of SUPREME self care - and it came about from understanding, really feeling and believing in a way I haven't before, that taking care of myself is what comes FIRST.
In every way.
Physically, emotionally, spiritually.
When I take care of myself FIRST then everything else flows.
SUPREME self care means - for me - STARTING with creating a commitment and a DISCIPLINE, if you like, that then becomes a habit.
And when things are habits they are EASY and natural; it's just what you do.
Everyone's commitments and priorities to themselves will be different but mine include:
DAILY journaling and movement/fitness - usually yoga, and choosing food I love and that's best for me.
A MONTHLY massage.
MONTHLY house cleaner so my environment is as I like it and making space and time for me to do more of what I love and less of what I don't.
Every other month an appointment with my osteopath.
Regular health appointments such as the dentist.
Regular manicures and pedicures whether at home or at the salon and regular hair appointments.
Choosing to drink water, (and good wine!), get the right amount of sleep for me.
Surrounding myself with people who bring me UP, who support and encourage and inspire me - and for whom I do the same.
DAILY time for reflection, meditation and this can be quiet at home or while out walking.
DAILY watch and / or read something inspiring. It doesn't have to be long - just a blog post by a fave blogger, a podcast, a feature in the newspaper, whatever it is.
It all creates a deep foundation of care from which to live, to create, to work, to play, to BE.
