Self care & self compassion are so important. The year is flying by and before we know it, it’ll be time for the holidays again. The worst thing about the holidays is that often times we are so stretched out between family events and wanting to make sure that we give our loved ones the perfect holiday that we forget about our own selves. It’s okay to put yourself first and this post is going to give you some ways to do so.
Probably the best way to take care of yourself is to draw yourself a warm bath and let your mind wander as you soak. I love adding in a few drops of lavender essential oil to my bath. Lavender’s calming scent helps to relieve stress and reduce anxious feelings. If you don’t have a bathtub, then try a foot soak. Elevate your foot soak by adding cup of Epsom salt to your basin of warm water in addition to essential oils to help detoxify the body.
I wrote about Crystal Healing a while back. Crystal Healing allows you to rejuvenate your body and soul to help remove emotional blocks and promote healing and spiritual growth. Crystals are powerful tools for energy. For example, rose quartz emits vibrations of love, harmony and peace. Amethyst is an all-purpose stone that would be great to have around for relieving stress and anxiety.
Meditation is another great way to relax to body and mind. Meditation reduces cortisol (i.e. the stress hormone), reduces anxiety and depression, and just generally gives you a sense of inner calm that will last throughout the day. Start small – take 3-5 minutes, close your eyes and just focus on your breathing. Feel each breath enter and leave your body.
Over all, the best way to put yourself first is to do something that brings you joy. Whether it is making up a batch of cookies in the oven, going for a run, or simply taking a few moments to read a book, when you take the time for yourself, it’ll make a huge impact on your spirit. When you care for yourself, you are showing yourself love. The more you love yourself, the more you?ll be able to share that love with others.