Self-Soothe

In these unprecedented, transforming, exciting, thrilling and terrifying times, as we experience intense joy, deep grieving and many variant emotions in between, it is critically important that we become good at self-care, sharing and caring for each other and fiercely protective of our well being.

Let's share our best practices for connecting to and protecting ourSelves. I have a friend who dances every morning as a regular practice to start her day in the mindset of being true to herself to and enliven her to be fully present to serve others. She has committed to dancing to two songs each morning. Time permitting, and listening to what her body wants, some days it goes on for four or five songs. Can't you just imagine her awakening her body and her spirit as she moves to music!

For me, I go straight to the hot tub, if it's not lightening or the wind is not so fierce that the lid wont stay open. I try to get outdoors while the neighbors are still sleeping and the birds are beginning the new day celebrations. Depending on the seasons, the stars and/or the moon connect my sprit to the heavens. As the days lengthen and the darkness wanes I connect anyway, knowing they are there I just cant see them. My spirit awakens as I reMEmber who I am and what I am committed to being. Soaking seems to activate my inspiration Source. I express my gratitude, rumble through my self-made mantras (with varying degrees of mindfulness) and invite in my Muse, the Inner Wise Woman who waits for my invitation to speak to me. I listen within.

Journaling or writing a letter or blogging or composing, creating or some other form of expression is an essential part of my morning practice. If I don't capture the guidance she provides, it's likely to go unused. I practice being content with each morning's practice, welcoming the diversity and variety of my actions and my being. Ten minutes of mindfulness stillness is a good way to cement that contentment.

Here are some other ideas I try to incorporate into my week to provide myself with good self-care.

Meditation [checking in with Higher Self & Letting Go] Movement [some form of exercise - preferably outdoors] Creation Endeavor [play piano, write, throw a clay pot, cook] Fresh Hygiene [Shower, hair, BEaUtiful] Tidy bedroom & kitchen & living space Good food, water, and supplements into my body Community [checking in with my Loves] Contribution [willing to be vulnerable and share my thoughts] Intention [focused direction and life-long learning]

Then, for fun and/or personal enJOYment: (sanity maintenance) -

Get lost in the essence of a Grandchild

Tuesdays with Taber

Wellness Wednesdays (a day of solitude)

Watch a favorite movie, or a new Rom Com

Go kayaking or go fishing (without hooks)

Take a Hike

Take a nap (likely this should move to daily?)