“Remember always that you not only have the right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
“Women need solitude in order to find again the true essence of themselves.” – Anne Morrow Lindbergh
“Be who you are and say how you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” – Dr. Seuss
We all struggle with taking care of ourselves. Most everyone looks to care for those in their circle of life, in the work world, and to some extent, our charitable efforts before checking on our own needs. Many are taught it is “selfish” to focus on oneself. Many haven’t a concept of what it looks like to care for self.
The things previously discussed are part of self-care. Learning to be mindful in the different areas of your life, such as, diet, sleep, exercise, fun, activity, work are some of those. How to implement meditation for yourself to help with the “mind chatter” that can be annoying at the most inopportune times! (For me, it is when I am trying to sleep.)
One of the best acts you can do for yourself is to go outside and enjoy the unending variety of beauty that God has created. The sky, whether cloudy or clear; the horizon, whether lined with buildings or trees, or dirt; any vegetation; any insect life; any water body, etc.
At the Retreat, forest bathing will be one of the most relaxing activities available. Recognizing that all of nature is alive with you helps make that circle complete. The trees, the sky, the breeze, the creek, the crawdads, my dog all made my life livable. Nature offers comfort and reality. We now know that all living things radiate their life. Try putting your back to a tree, lean on it, and feel. Focus where your thoughts go. Comfort, deep sigh!
The creek babbling, breeze blowing, flowers in bloom, and butterflies—-my joy for the week!
I am sharing my moments with this blog’s pictures. Enjoy!
