 |
I'm committed to Self Love and Self Care First |
Having just celebrated Father’s Day this weekend and still fresh from the recent sweet memories of Mother’s Day, I felt this is a good time to share these truths.
Our children
learn from us by observing what we do rather than what we say.
If we want them
to grow up as healthy adults that have lives that are fulfilling, successful
and of service to their families, communities and the world, then we must teach
them about Self Love and Self Care First.
There is a big
difference between recognizing self love to be a form of healthy living as
opposed to selfish living. Self love means focusing on paying attention to
nurturing and caring for ourselves in a proactive and compassionate manner.
Only from this place of fullness and
joy are we able to take care of others without burning out or building up
resentment. There is nothing better for our children to see us do things for
ourselves that fuel our highest and most meaningful existence. It is the best
lesson we can teach them so they may grow up as adults that know themselves,
take care of themselves and are able to listen to their own voice over the
noise that surrounds them.
So
here is my Top 5 list of
Self Love and Self Care First
Easy and simple
steps to get started
1.
Body Health
Prioritize scheduling your own health care appointments before
you schedule your children’s appointments
(As
a doctor I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard a patient
say- “Let me get the kids in first. They are more important” What ends up
happening is that the parent may not find the time to schedule themselves for
their care until they are in an emergency situation. As a mother, I want my children to know that they are very important but so are other members in our family. I believe that helps them develop consideration for others)
2.
Sleep
Keep a sleep diary to see
if you are getting enough sleep and if you are waking up refreshed.
3.
Diet
Reduce or eliminate sugar
from your diet and drink more water
Sugar
causes inflammation in your body and tooth decay. Inflammation is the starting
point of many diseases in the body that have far reaching effects on our health
and well being.
4.
Exercise
Carve out 30 minutes or
more to exercise every day.
The
benefits to you are amazing! Consistent daily exercise has been well documented
to benefit physical, mental and emotional health. If you can’t do 30 minutes,
do less. Once you start, you will be motivated to find the time in your busy
day.
5.
Well being , Connection
and Joy
Schedule
time in advance for activities that bring joy and meaning to you just like you
would make time for anything else that is pressing and urgent.
Something as simple as talking to a
friend, pursuing a passion or a hobby or quiet time to be still can have a dramatic impact on your
mood and well being.
I refer to this list whenever I feel that I
am not integrated and balanced within myself. Usually, it's because I am not
doing one of these 5 things. I am then able to do a self correction and get
back into the Zone that helps me be my best and ultimately give my best.
Until next time,
Be well Do well Live well
Sincerely,
Sunita
