The holidays left us all a little worn down...tbh 2020 left us worn down. This Valentine's Day, the best thing you can do is practice a little self-love and self-care. Take a deep breath, close your eyes and imagine the safest person in your life. That person that you aren't afraid to be yourself in front of, it could be your best friend, your spouse or your closest confidant. Picture them looking you in the eyes, with a heart full of care and concern, and they ask you, "(insert your name) what do you need right now? What do you really need?" Think about that one thing that would bring your body, mind and soul some relief. What would be a breath of fresh air or wind in your sails for you today?
Do you need to spend time with yourself? Buy yourself a treat? Say something kind to yourself? Give yourself space and permission to do that thing in the month of February. We brainstormed some creative ways to meet that need you have.
1. Physical Restoration
Take a bath with muscle soak bath salts from Whole Foods, light candle and read magazine or book. Make sure your reading is relaxing and enjoyable - nothing for work or personal development. Just be. Breathe in deeply and let your mind be at peace.
2. Energy
What energizes you? Find an old album that brings you back to a season where you had energy and go for a walk. Listen to those happy tunes outside and feel your blood start pumping through your body.
3. Quiet and Stillness
Has life been hectic lately? Clear your schedule for a day or just an afternoon. Find someone that watch your kids and pick a comfy spot for yourself. Wrap up in a blanket made of your favorite material and give yourself time to just rest. Use the Calm app to meditate or read something that takes you to a happy place. This time of quiet will rejuvenate your soul.
4. Connection
If you are feeling lonely this season, set up a time with a friend to meet for coffee even if it is virtual. Make sure that they are someone that brings joy to your heart and will speak positive words over you.
5. Encouragement
If you are feeling hopeless or unsure of your next steps, speaking truth to yourself could be just what you need. Open up a journal or grab a piece of paper and write down all of the positive things about yourself. What are you good at? What are your favorite qualities about yourself? Where have you seen good things happen in your past? Read all of this back to yourself and bring it out anytime you are starting to feel down. Feel free to add good things to it as you go through the rest of the month.
While this list may not exhaust what you need this season, the inspiration is there. If you aren't sure yet what you need, give it a day and come back to that question. The time is right to invest in yourself so that you can be the best for the people that need you most. We care about you and are here for you! Happy Self-Care friends!