Overwhelmed?

Let’s face it, most of us want to feel good, have vibrant energy, stable emotions and a positive outlook on  life.
But, is that really our current experience?

Unfortunately, for many of us , it is not.

We feel tired, overwhelmed, overworked, stressed and we have physical symptoms that go along with it; insomnia, body aches, digestive distress, adrenal fatigue, etc. etc. etc.

We may know what we need to do to bring our lives back into balance, but it is difficult to do so. We’re busy- we have jobs, children, church, friends, obligations and we often put ourselves last.
Sound familiar?

I get it!  I’ve been there, and I still find myself there occasionally, but I also know from my own experiences that if we don’t slow down and listen and respect ourselves and our need for balance, we won’t create a life of vibrant energy, peak physical health and positive emotional outlooks.

Our world of modern day conveniences and quick fixes does not provide lasting solutions for true health.
Let’s face it, it is NOT convenient to maintain health today.
We need to be vigilant, turn off the the chatter and tune inward toward what really matters. We can’t make all of the stress go away, but we can change the way we deal with it!
It involves a change in thinking and a change in lifestyle. It involves making yourself a priority.

So, how do we begin, and not feel selfish for indulging in self care?

•  Understand that self care is a necessity- not an option.  If we don’t take care of ourselves, we won’t have the reserves to take care of others. When we keep giving from a place of depletion, we end up feeling beaten down, resentful and angry- and who wants to feel like that?                                                            When we replenish our energy and have what to give, we can give with ease, joy and unconditional love- feels much better, doesn’t it?

•  Begin engaging in simple self care each day- do whatever it is that makes you feel good- EVERY DAY- even if it is just for 5 minutes and even if it means you have to lock yourself in the bathroom to do it!

• Nourish yourself! Eat well- eat foods that increase your vitality, not deplete it. Opt for whole foods, organic as much as possible and limit processed foods in boxes.

• Take time to eat- really enjoy your meals- sit down at the table without distractions and focus on the meal and one another.

• Sleep! Sleep is crucial for allowing our bodies to repair. Retire to bed early,  take naps when you are tired (it’s ok- the laundry can wait!!).  If you can’t sleep, take the time to rest and breathe.

• Ask! Don’t feel like you need to do everything on your own- if you need a nap and can ask a neighbor to watch your child for an hour, do it! If you need help with meal preparation, ask!

• Receive- don’t be ashamed to receive help. We weren’t meant to do everything alone- we are meant to live in a community where there is give and take. I’m still trying to integrate the concept that giving makes people feel good and by denying them the opportunity to give to YOU, you have just undermined their need to give and feel good!

• Be grateful! Even when we are down, there are still things to be grateful for. Being grateful for and acknowledging the little things around you will make you more aware of the larger things!!