We Matter

[DonnaBoll]

This past weekend I did a virtual 2 day retreat on 'Food Freedom". For many years I have struggled with weight and my relationship with food.

A huge part of the retreat was the importance of taking care of ourselves physically and when we do we also reap so many rewards from doing so for our mental state.

I know many of us feel we don't have time for ourselves with family, work, health issues, kids, and so much more on our plates. However, no one can continue to care for others if they don't 'recharge' themselves first. We can only give so much of ourselves until we are running on empty.

It can be 15 minutes a day of "you time". Just sitting alone in a comfy chair, reading, taking a walk, deep breathing really noticing your breath, meditation, listening to a favorite piece of music, calling a friend, a few yoga poses, or more.

What's really important is that when you decide to do this that you are very specific about when and how often you will do this. I actually put it in my phone calendar that I have water aerobics every Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm. Make it as important as any other event on your calendars.

We all deserve to take of ourselves mentally as well as physically. We have to believe that we matter enough to take that time to do so. If you find yourself having trouble with this, please feel free to reach to me here or in a private chat. I'm sure any one of you is not alone making yourself believe that you need 'me time'. Let me know what you've decided to put on that calendar.

[DebatDG9]

I have me time every morning after I’ve fed the dog and passed her onto my husband. After a cuddle in bed, he empties the dishwasher and sets the table for breakfast. This gives me time to lounge on my window-seat day bed, meditate and enjoy a pint mug of tea. Great way to prepare for whatever the day may bring!

[DonnaBoll Administrator in reply to DebatDG9]

What a wonderful way to start your day. You've had cuddle time with your husband, got the dishwasher emptied and the dog taken of. Now it's your time. I can see in my mind you sitting on your window-seat day bed with your coffee. Thank you so much for sharing 'your time' with all of us. I'm sure it helps set the whole tone of the day for you.

[Michi1]

Every morning I take my giant yorkie, Paris, for a walk and we stop for a cup of coffee at the outdoor seating area of a nearby restaurant. It is surrounded by thick potted shrubs and table umbrellas forming an island of nature in the city. Birds sing and the servers make Paris a few tiny pancakes that make her day. It’s an oasis in concrete and high rises.

Dog with tiny pancakes.

[DonnaBoll Administrator in reply to Michi1]

I love this !! and even a picture!!!! you definitely painted the picture for us in our minds...I can tell Paris is a big part of your life. It does sound like your private place for you and Paris. Thanks for sharing all of this with us.. So glad you take the time to just 'be' in this perfect place.