December Gifts to YOURSELF - Tips for Week 2

Hello Friends,

This week’s tips are the 3 M’s. They are acts of will and you are in the drivers seat. You can focus on one a day or only one this entire week.

Whatever works for you in a way that adds to your self-care and brings you support and goodness.

Move 

Keep up with your exercise routine. And if you have to make adjustments because of busier days, try not to get frustrated. Exercise at any part of the day for any stretch of time is better than none at all.

Don’t have an exercise routine? No worries. If you’re listening to music at home, bust a move! Or try to walk a little more:

• Park further away from the store entrance

• Opt for the stairs instead of the elevator at work

• Take the long route to the bathroom 

• Walk during your lunch break rather than sitting in front of your computer to get more work done. You’d be surprised: 5-10 minutes is worth its weight in gold!!

Moving is going to help get the blood pumping which stimulates happy juices, stress relief, and mental clarity. It’s a great form of a self-care!

Mantra 

This is a short repeated word or phrase, which helps us to maintain focus and bring attention to ourselves in the present moment. This is mindfulness to the max.

• You can have one for each day or week, one for the month, or you can change it based on the situation! 

• Make it positive! 

  • Even if you’re dealing with a tough situation, create your mantra around what you can DO or what you’re working towards rather than making it reactive to negativity

• Some ideas for the holiday season: 

  • “It is good enough”

  • “Slow and steady”

  • “I am present”

  • “I am grateful” (can stop here or continue with “for _____.”)

  • “I am blessed”

My mantra for the holiday season: “I love this time of year.”  It is absolutely my favorite time of year and this mantra serves as a good reminder to get my mind right when I feel overwhelmed or frustrated.

Meals 

Be sure to eat.  Take back some of your to-do list’s power and be sure to get at least 2 good meals in! Schedule it into your calendar if you have to! Self-care self-care self-care!

Moderation - this is you establishing control and care for yourself. 

• Yes you can indulge, but remember - food is nourishment so if you wouldn’t skimp on the quality of gas you put in your car for weeks on end, treat yourself with the same care! 

• Be sure to NOURISH your body, so you feel good tomorrow! 

• And if you choose to indulge (I will, that’s for sure!) be kind to yourself. No guilt or bad-mouthing your decision even if you over-indulged. Stay positive, make better decisions the next day, and keep it moving. 

Enjoy this week!