Healing starts with the things we often take for granted….ourselves.
As women, we often go through life making sure that everyone around us is doing well and achieving their hopes and dreams. All the while, we are on the sidelines, teetering and thinking about the “what if’s” for ourselves.
Ladies, you must know that it’s okay…as a matter of fact, you should demand that you take care of ourselves first.How many times have you heard the flight attendant state, “put on your mask, before helping others,” or if you’re into sports, you might hear a coach will,“You have to secure the ball first, and then pass it.”
When we avoid taking care of ourselves first, we’re unable to help others in the most valuable and effective way. Years ago, I took on this challenge by giving myself the best piece of chicken during dinner and then buying myself a pair of sneakers for a price that I would normally spend on the kids and not myself. It was so liberating and lives with me to this day. I’d like to challenge you to think of one thing you can do to put yourself at the front of the line.
Here are a few ideas:
- Turn on your favorite song and dance like nobody is watching. I love to dance and just spending a few minutes “dancing it out” recharges me and fuels my positive energy.
- Practice mindfulness – For me, this looks like giving myself space to reflect on my day and prioritize my tasks. 10 min of journaling or meditating are great ways to accomplish this.
- Take a walk outside – You will be surprised when you get outside, feel the fresh air, and move your body. Our bodies crave movement and nature, even if it is only for 10 min.
If you take on this challenge, please, let me know what securing your mask first, looks like for you.