How many times have you thought about something you’d like to do, but quickly reminded yourself that you don’t have time for it? Many of us spend so much time doing what we feel we must do, that we don’t have enough time to include things we would love to do. The feeling of not having enough freedom to pursue quality time with our families, or other things that we truly enjoy can leave us feeling stressed and unhappy.
An important part of wellness is taking the time to Self Nurture. What is self nurture? In a nutshell, it’s taking time for you. Wow, I can almost hear some of you saying, “Time for myself! I don’t have time for myself! I’m too busy!” But if you don’t take time for yourself, what quality of yourself are you offering others?
Why is it so much easier for us to nurture others?
Self sacrifice of putting your job, spouse, kids etc. first all the time serves no one in the long run. You may become resentful, angry and depleted on all levels (mind, body, and Spirit). On the other hand self nurture will recharge these areas of your life. Research on self nurturing shows many benefits to our health including strengthening of the immune system. If research had a way to measure it I’m sure they would find an increase in “feel good cells” too. The basics of self nurture are eating well, getting exercise, enough rest, and time for play and enjoyment and it doesn’t need to cost anything. Examples of self nurturing can be as simple as taking a walk, eating a good meal, taking a nap, speaking kindly to yourself, and focusing on the 80% that IS working in your life. Self nurture is different for everyone. Ask yourself “What is it that I need? “What can I let go of so I can create time for myself?” “How can I nurture myself today?”
Modeling
Often times self nurturing skills need to be taught. Think back on your childhood; did your mother model good self nurturing skills? Or did she ‘selflessly’ take care of everyone else, but herself. If you did not learn how to self nurture from observing your mother it will be harder for you to do so as an adult.
If you do not show your children that you self nurture, they will not learn it and they will grow up to pass this behavior onto their children. Self nurturing is closely connected to self worth. Teaching our children to self nurture, that they are worth a few minutes of time to themselves or that they include pleasurable activities in their lives is of the utmost importance to their long term health. The same goes for you.
Who makes your schedule?
When you are running around extremely stressed out, this question may be an irritating reminder, but it’s true, “Who makes your schedule?” You do. You choose what to prioritize and commit to. We all have busy lives but it is up to you to schedule in time for yourself. Self nurturing isn’t a luxury but a necessity for physical, spiritual, and mental health.
Angela Pifer, MSN, CN, Seattle Nutritionist
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Categories: Developing Awareness
