Pro-Active Self-Care
Many of us have experienced it or at least heard it...as part of the standard pre-flight announcements, the flight attendant instructs that, "if there should be a change in cabin pressure...put your oxygen mask on first before helping others." While this is often used as a metaphor for self-care, it also implies there is an extreme emergency. Many of us WAIT until our lives reach that point before we take action. We want you to practice self-care EVERYDAY. Practicing small moments of self-care daily will fill your tank; protecting you from things like burnout and create the conditions for you to show up as your best, authentic self personally and professionally.
Below is a list of small actions (we will add to the list each newsletter) you can take to build your self-care practice muscles. Start with one and go from there. You deserve it.
Take a brief walk
Schedule time to do nothing
Read or listen to a book for fun
Listen to music that makes you happy
Notice something in nature that brings you joy
Spend time with a pet
Set a timer throughout the day to pause and breathe (4 counts in, hold for 4, exhale for 8)
Share a meal with a loved one
Light your favorite candle
Smile and laugh
Take a short nap
Get up and stretch regularly throughout the day
Start an affirmation jar for yourself and add to each day at the same time
Keep a gratitude journal
Call (not text!) a friend or family member
What will you practice today?
