When I was listening to “The Art of Extreme Self Care” by Cheryl Richardson,
for me, it was a survival guide. Having lived at mock speed for years and
depriving myself of daily human needs; it was time for a drastic self
intervention. The part of the book that struck a cord most was when Cheryl
warned that others would not like your decision to initiate self care
rituals. She said that part of initiating this way of living would disappoint
others that have grown to depend on your usual selfless behavior. “How
dare you take time out of your day for you?” When you look at this question
it seems silly, but I was not alone. Many women who I spoke to that juggled
a full-time job and a family said, there is no way I would have time for__________.
It made me so sad to think I was not alone, that so many other people felt
this weight. Today’s focus is loving ourselves by taking the time to nurture
all of ourselves; body, mind and spirit.
You DO have time…You MUST have time…
When you wake up this morning think about all the amazing and unique
qualities you have.
Journal Entry: Write a list of things you would do for yourself if you had
an endless amount of time. Now today, cross one or more off of that list.
Morning Meditation: Louise Hay-Loving Ourselves: Become Illuminate-Youtube
This is a long meditation so you could listen to it as you prepare for the day.
Self Care:
Mirror Work: One technique that Cheryl Richardson outlined in her book
was mirror work. This is where you look in the mirror at yourself, look directly in your
own eyes and say “I Love You (your name).” It will seem silly at first but will become
easier the more you do it.
Buy Yourself a Bouquet of Flowers.
Physical Activity: 30 minutes of Qi Gong: This is a beautiful, and very spiritual
Chi Gong is an ancient Chinese healing energy exercise.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7DZ3YdR8Nc
Art Project: “Life on Hold”: by Youtube User: RachO113:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfrhdVOLKr8
Literary Suggestion: Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach:
This has always been my bible and a book I buy whenever I see it at a second hand
book store to give to others who I felt needed it. I has a daily inspirational reading
and something in your life to focus on to empower yourself. She has a collection
of books in this series and a journal.
Here is a link to her website:
http://www.simpleabundance.com/index.html
Evening Meditation: Deepak Chopra: A Renowned Spiritual Author:
“The Secret of Healing: Meditations for Transformation and Higher Consciousness.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uin2q_hEHlU
Peace, Love & Namaste
Em
P.S. You do have time for yourself!
