In a fast-paced world full of constant demands, it's easy to forget to take care of
yourself. As women, we are often taught to put others first and to sacrifice our own
needs in order to take care of those around us.

But what happens when we don't take care of ourselves? We can't pour from an empty cup. In order to be our best selves, we need to make sure that we are taking care of ourselves both physically and mentally.

Self care is about more than just getting your nails done or going for a massage (although those activities can definitely be part of self care!).

Self care is anything that you do intentionally to take care of yourself
both physically and mentally. It's about taking the time to do something that makes you feel good, both in the moment and in the long run.

Unfortunately, self care is often seen as selfishness. We're taught that we should be sacrificing our own needs for the sake of others. But the truth is, if we don't take care of ourselves, we won't be able to take care of anyone else.

When we neglect our own wellbeing, it eventually catches up with us and can lead to physical and mental health problems down the road. So how can you make sure that you're taking care of yourself?

Here are some self care ideas to get you started:

- Get enough sleep: Sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. Most adults need between 7 and 8 hours of sleep per night.

- Eat healthy: Eating nutritious foods helps our bodies to function at their best. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.

- Exercise: Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. A moderate amount of exercise is the key to maintaining your mental health.

- Take breaks: When you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed, take a few minutes for yourself to relax and rejuvenate. Take a hot bath, read your favorite book, or go for a walk outdoors.

- Connect with loved ones: Spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress and promote positive emotions. Whether you stay in touch via text, social media, or in person, quality time with those you care about is important for your mental health.

- Do something you enjoy: Make time for activities that make you happy! Whether it's painting, hiking, playing an instrument, or watching your favorite show, do more of
what makes you smile.

Self care is essential for leading a happy and healthy life. When we take the time to nurture ourselves physically and mentally, we are better able to take care of those around us. So don't forget to schedule some 'me time' into your busy schedule!

​You deserve it.

I sometimes pass on information regarding books that I have read that I feel others would enjoy. The book that I just completed is entitled Living on Purpose by Dan Millman, author of Way of the Peaceful Warrior.  One of the chapters that hit home particularly hard starts with the question, “ Should we judge ourselves and others, or accept any kind of behavior?”

The short answer is “Judge with Compassion.” He goes on to say that the universe was created to teach us, not to judge us. Yet we judge the world and ourselves. Those quick to judge are slow to compassion. Those slow to compassion have forgotten that hurtful people don’t go to hell; they are already in hell; that is why they behave as they do. Ultimately, no one gets away with anything. Resenting people only allows others to live in our head rent-free. And despite our judgments, reality happens anyway. So, if we judge, let us judge with compassion, until we finally discover that our primary business is not forgiving others but asking forgiveness.
Mother Teresa said “If you judge people you have no time to love them.” I feel that often the one we forget to show this love is ourselves. Anne Truitt wrote “ It takes kindness to forgive oneself for one’s life.” Realize that we are doing the best we can within our limits of current beliefs. Millman says, “ Every saint had a past and every sinner has a future.” Maybe there is hope for me yet.

Until next time – Namaste – Jerry