SELF CARE

Here is some further notes from a Positive Parenting course (I have posted some other notes previously)

I have no doubt that we all know that we should take time for ourselves for a healthy lifestyle and to be able to help our loved ones better but sometimes we need to be reminded of it.

Lets start by saying: TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF: YOU ARE WORTH IT!

Self care is important because;

• this is the only self you ever have
• you deserve yourself at your best
• this is a gift you give to others
• it builds and demonstrates self-respect and our entitlement or be treated with respect by others

Some suggestions:

• write
• paint, draw
• read,
• exercise,
• play an instrument,
• visit a museum,
• take lessons,
• engage in your favourite hobby,
• go to the gym,
• go for a long walk,
• paper yourself and go to the hairdressers,
• take a bubble bath,
• watch a movie,
• read a trashy novel or good book,
• listen to music,
• paint your toenails,
• cook your favourite meal, or try a new recipe,
• wear a nice perfume,
• simply take a nap,
• get in touch with a supportive friend or relative,
• meditate or pray,
• do some gardening,
• dance - play your favourite music with a good beat and dance to it,
• do something new,
• check out a yoga video or DVD from your local library, and make time to do it,
• daydream,
• smile,
• set a timer, close your eyes, and breathe deeply for five minutes,
• sit outside and breathe fresh air and enjoy the sun on your face,
• get up fifteen minutes early so you can linger over a cup of coffee,
• bake a scrumptious dessert just for you,
• re-read something that has been especially encouraging to you,
• write in a journal,
• go to a park and sit on the swings with your kids,
• go to bed an hour early,
• watch the sunset,
• listen to soothing music,
• grow something, such as a house plant or fresh herbs,
• sit with a cup of hot chocolate or some hot tea,
• give yourself permission to say 'no' to something you really don't have time for or are not interested in,
• say 'yes' to something you'd really like to do,
• express your creativity,
• lend a hand to someone in need,
• hug your kids!

Have a type of day that you deserve!