Nurture Yourself

The importance of taking care of our physical health is widely acknowledged, yet often we give little thought to our emotional health. During the winter months when we tend to have less social contact and during times of stress, it becomes even more important to nurture our emotional health. 

On a day-to-day level, there are small things we can do to nurture ourselves and help us maintain positive energy which in turn also benefits those around us. 

Here are my suggestions,  I hope you find some that resonate with you and that they help bring warmth & positivity to these chilly winter days! 

Nourishment

Nourish mind & body with plenty of nutritious, food. The food we eat has a direct impact upon how we feel. A balanced diet can help boost our mood and our immune system.

Movement

Find any form of movement that you love.. maybe yoga maybe dancing, walking, running.. Movement creates endorphins. It’s so good for our mental health as well as for keeping us physically strong.   

Rest & Sleep  

For our mind and body to restore, our nervous system needs to be operating in the parasympathetic state. Sleep is the best way to restore but active rest such as reading, listening to music, gentle yoga, yoga nidra, meditation & breath-work for relaxation can also be beneficial. 

Set intentions   

Intention setting is like drawing a map of where you wish to go. It helps us maintain focus and provides a sense of accomplishment. Whether daily, monthly or long term .. allow yourself to dream. 

Stay in touch

Enjoy time with the people you love & care for and who love & care for you.  Currently this may have to be through technology. Stay in touch in whichever way you can. 

Share how you’re feeling

This is really important. In a global world where we are constantly fed images of perfection it is often difficult to know what to do when life is less than perfect.  Be open about how you feel both when all is good and when you need support. We’re in this together.

 Compassion & kindness

Treating yourself with the same kindness you extend to others is important. As the saying goes.. ‘you cannot pour from an empty cup’. Being kind to yourself gives you energy to live well & help others. A yoga practise can provide an ideal time and space to notice how you feel physically & emotionally. Listen inwards, the heart knows.

 Spend time in nature 

We are intertwined with nature and its natural rhythms. Spending time outdoors reduces stress and anxiety and boosts creativity. Whilst working indoors and during the winter months creating a natural space in which you love to spend time can really nurture the soul. Surround yourself with plants & foliage, natural materials and fabrics, candlelight, natural scent & a log fire to bring the beautiful outdoors in.  

Become completely absorbed by something you love..  

There is so much in this world that can capture you heart and imagination .. the beauty of nature, the power of the ocean, the joy of walking barefoot in the sand, a simple meal made with delicious ingredients, creating something with others. Find what makes you happy and give yourself time to do just that.

x Carolyn