By: Zenell Brown
Try as we might, we cannot pour from an empty cup. If we think of our mind, body, and spirit as an individual cup, we need that cup to be full to have the energy to sustain us physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually.
Self-care is the pathway to ensure that we have enough – peace, calmness, balance, and other positive energy to be our best selves and to bring that self forward in our career, family, and valued endeavors. On our holiday to-do list, it’s time to make sure that self-care is a top priority.
In a recent CNBSC survey of approximately 7,000 women in the U.S., 53% reported burnout, suffering symptoms of brain fog, fatigue, and chronic stress. Also, the holiday season is the peak season for depression and heart attacks. It’s time for us not just to take notice of the stats and data but to do something about them. It’s time to remember that we wear many hats and juggle many roles, but we can’t do that incessantly and without taking care of ourselves. It’s time for self-care.
In addition to the basics of getting your annual medical and dental check-ups, here are seven self-care tips for the holiday season:
1. Breathe: Breath is life.
A deep inhalation through the nose, letting the belly and lungs fill with air, holding off the breath, and then slowly exhaling allows us to center ourselves, relieve stress, and reduce anxiety. Taking a deep breath is an inexpensive, readily accessible way to take a moment for yourself.
2. Be a joyful receiver.
Allow others to care for and pamper you. Sometimes we are so capable of doing things on our own, that we forget how wonderful it feels when someone does something for us. This season, say “Yes” when someone offers to get you a cup of coffee, wash your car, wipe the snow off your car, run an errand, or pick up the kids. Allow yourself to be a joyful receiver as well as a generous giver.
3. Find Solitude.
With the holidays, there comes cheer, crowds, and bustling. Schedule some time to unplug and be in solitude. Use this time to reflect and connect. Reflect on the things that brought you joy over the past 12 months and connect to your dreams and desires for the upcoming year. Journaling, prayer, and meditation are perfect complements for expressing gratitude and rejuvenating your spirit.
4. Rest.
Take a nap over the holiday. Naps are not only good for babies. Your mind and body use this respite to shut down and replenish for the morning activities. Naps boost your memory, energy, and mood. Also, don’t forget the value of a solid 8 hours of sleep at night.
5. Walk.
Walk slow, moderate, or fast. Each pace has benefits — contemplative to cardio. Walking may be an easy substitute for riding elevators and escalators.
6. Stretch and dance it out.
Movement helps eliminate toxins, improves circulation, and increases flexibility. Put on your favorite holiday tunes, your Motown sounds, or your yoga mantras.
7. Laugh
Laughter stimulates our hearts and lungs and soothes tensions. The long-term effects of laughter include improving our immune system. As adults, we easily forget how good fun feels and how important it is. Dr. William Glasser in “Choice Theory” psychiatry advanced that fun is one of the five basic human needs and an essential element in a quality world. Follow the doctor’s advice; in addition to an apple a day, make sure you find time to laugh and share a laugh.
Prioritize Self-Care
The wholeness of our being — the physical, mental, and spiritual makeup of self—needs the gifts of self-care. Without apology or regret, take care of YOU this season so you can pour love and energy into the people and things that matter most to you for the upcoming year.
Happy Holidays and cheers to self-care.
Zenell B. Brown is an attorney, published author, and principal leadership consultant coach of Inspiring Minds, Inc.