Self-care hasn’t always come naturally for me. I have, for much of my life, focused on the needs of others. Meaning, pleasing my family, friends, and even new acquaintances, and gaining their acceptance was more valuable than meeting my own needs. It wasn’t until I faced both a physical and emotional crisis that I began to understand the importance of taking care of myself. “ - Betsy G.
I attended a small gathering recently where I met a very kind woman by the name of Betsy G.
We said our hellos over an abundantly adorned table and took note of our similar choices in food; vegetables, beans, rice, a little fruit, and bottled water.
Let me guess you’re watching what you’re putting in your body too?!
Yes, I said, it’s fast becoming a way of life for me, like it or not!
We both chuckled.
The conversation continued as we took seats next to one another, we began to discuss our journeys to improved health. We shared the fact that we had been down a rocky road with our health and emotional well-being. We spoke of our mutual explorations into alternative medicine; less reliance on prescriptions, more focus on healthy, preservative-free, and organic foods. We discussed the benefits gained by increasing our exercise, implementing meditation, yoga, mindfulness practices, and spending time outdoors in our overall physical, mental and emotional wellness. Finally, we expressed our gratitude for having met one another and promised to stay in touch.
Upon her departure, Betsy handed me a business card. I gave her mine as well.
Later that evening, I opened up my purse to retrieve her card. I was surprised by what I read: Betsy G., M.D.
I revisited in my mind whether or not she had mentioned that she was a physician. I can still not recall her having done so. I was curious why she had mentioned taking care of others but not being good at self-care on her own. She may have assumed that I was aware of her position, or maybe, she didn’t want it to discourage me from openly discussing my health and thoughts on healing. Either way, I will remain thankful for her generosity of self and for sharing the details of her journey.
Where are you in your journey to discovering or rediscovering good health? Are you doing all of the things that you can to increase the quality of your physical, emotional, and mental health? If so, congratulations on your efforts, If not, I encourage you to read the self-care suggestions found below. Please keep in mind, this information is not intended for the purpose of soliciting medical advice. I wish you good health and joy!
Allow yourself to:
Express your thoughts and feelings
Accept your feelings without judging them.
Make mistakes.
Practice mindfulness and try to remain in the moment
Implement stress-reducing activities including meditation
Develop a relaxing evening ritual to ensure a healthy sleep pattern.
Spend time with family and friends, particularly people who are positive thinkers
Say yes!
Say no!
Have “me” time
Live in gratitude
Do:
Eat whole non-preservative based foods
Whatever energizes you
Whatever exercise you enjoy
Challenge yourself physically
Join in on organized activities
Workout with a partner, family, or friend
Spend some time in nature
Improve your daily personal care habits
Increase your water intake
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