Self-Care isn’t Selfish . . .

The buds are on the trees, the daffodils are blooming, birdies are chirping and each morning we are greeted with either sunshine, rain or snow flurries.

Our surroundings are changing and we are waking up from the hibernation of winter.  Have you noticed you have a little more “spring” to your step these last few days?

This time of year was made for renewal.  I believe it’s one of the best times of the year to take time to re-center and set new intentions as we move into summer.

I have been thinking about what I would like the next few months to look like.

Personally, I want more energy, I want to feel great in my clothes, I want to rock my bikini and I also want to enjoy and savour every treat that comes my way.  I also want more time off, to have life experiences that I can share and learn from.  I believe that these experiences will help me fulfill my life’s purpose even more.

The old me would have thought that the combination of those desires was not possible.  How could I possibly become more successful in my work if I chose to step away a little more and engage in other activities? Bingo – this is what I love about getting older!  I’m learning that taking breaks and focusing on my own well-being is the key to success.

This week I wrote a “To Do” list that turned into 3 pages.  I looked at it, felt overwhelmed and said out loud, “YOU can wait!”

I took a deep breath, got in my car and drove over to Good Life Fitness to inquire about a membership.  30 minutes later I walked out with a membership that includes spinning, hot yoga, body pump, zumba, weight machines and a sauna to reward myself with after the workout!!  Next . . . I downloaded the Weight Watchers App to my phone and started tracking my food intake.

How do I feel now?  Well, let me tell you!!! This feeling is exhilarating.  I did something for me first!

The exercise classes at Good Life help me manage my stress, tracking my food makes me appreciate food so much more.  I have been a life time member with WW since the 90’s and it’s not so much about weight loss anymore.  I re-joined this time because tracking my food helps me to fuel my body with power foods!  The choices I make give me more energy, I sleep better and I still enjoy a treat every day.

I plan that treat for the end of my day when I’m relaxing on the couch and I enjoy every bite.  This little ritual I have developed gives me so much satisfaction.  Instead of gulping down a couple of glasses of wine or gobbling up a piece of cake I am choosing one or the other and  I am savouring and enjoying the moment.

This small shift in behaviour mirrors itself in other areas of my life as well.  I truly believe that self-care will make me a more mindful person.  I know that special moments come and go, but the important thing to do is celebrate them.  I think we can all do this by slowing down and starting each day with a good thought and a purposeful intention.

I especially love taking this journey with other people.  Please feel free to ask me about the fitness and good eating stuff anytime!  If you want to follow me on WW my user name is monica_69.

You can do this too!  You are totally worth it and you DESERVE it!

Monica XO

I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.  How do you practice self-care?