Do Some Authentic Self Care…the world needs you
I am going to keep it simple this week. Normally, by June most of my clients are doing great and get too busy, too chill to come in regularly. This leaves me with more time to goof off. My plan for this summer’s lull was to begin working on an online version of Amazing Marriage 101. Instead, no one seems to be feeling better and I can only blame the political climate.
It isn’t like people are coming in to talk about the government. It feels more like how we in Minnesota experience winter- a dull ache that drains us and all we can do is survive, believing that this too shall pass…winter never lasts forever.
But this isn’t the weather and the end is complicated and we aren’t completely powerless.
So how do we protect ourselves without burying our heads in the sand?
Control what you put into your brain. Put yourself on a media, screen diet. Be intentional. Do not start and end the day with suffering. If watching is too emotional, switch to reading. If Facebook pulls you in at least delete it from your phone. Add more music, fiction, art.
Do something. Do not do everything. Believe in empowerment. Believe in both the power of one person and the power of community. Decide to give it an hour a day or an hour a week. Pick a candidate or an issue or a agency. Do whatever you must to keep the faith.
Compassion begins within. Be gentle with yourself. Take breaks. Walk in the woods. Meditate. Breathe. Lower your expectations.
Do not numb out. Keep an eye on your drinking, weed, video games. We are at a pivotal point in the battle. Do not let the worst of the world beat you down.
Care deeply. You have a ton of impact in your world. Be a great friend, a great lover, a great parent. Even be a great driver and a great Target shopper. The world needs you now. Those around us need patience and compassion and warmth. Be that.
“Authentic Self Care’ is finding the longing and needs of your authentic self. It takes some space. Give yourself room to figure out what you are missing and how to better address your needs. The world needs us at top form right now.
Off to a weekend of self care and indulgence in the woods with my boys and my friends. Take care. Then back to work…on my Amazing Marriage 101 course.
Maureen