Pay Attention!!! Your Body is Speaking

After looking back over the past several years, I realized that my body was speaking and giving me warning signals for quite some time.  Why were these signals allowed to remain unheeded?  At least part of the culprit was the fact that I used to put everyone's (and I do mean everyone's) needs above my own.  In the pecking order, I could wait, because everyone else's needs seemed to be more urgent than my own.  I allowed my job, family, friends, workshops, clients, literally everyone to have their needs met, and then would allocate whatever precious moments were left over to my own needs.

This type of behavior is actually typical of those who are regarded as being "capable."  Does this sound like you?  Try to avoid falling into this trap.  Know and remember that you cannot serve others properly unless your own needs are met.  If you allow youself to become burned out, then at the end of the day you are no good to anyone else, especially yourself!

We are unable to singlehandedly "save" everyone, as much as we'd like to think we can.  Others will continuously lay their crises at your feet if you permit it.  Lay aside the guilt, and allow yourself the freedom of saying a simple two-letter word...."No."  Unless it is a life and death situation which you are skilled in handling, other's problems can be put aside for one night.

When your body signals that sleep or rest is in order, succumb to the urges.  Give it what it wants!  I'm not suggesting that you act irresponsibly and drop everything you're doing if you are in the middle of a project at work, and lay down and take a nap!  Of course that would be ridiculous.  I am asserting, however, that you pace yourself, manage your time properly, and include self-care in your daily schedule.  It will make a world of difference.

Take time out of your busy day to meditate, pray, or relax.  As an alternative to watching television, listen to meditative music or soothing classical music.  The choice is yours.  Think of creative ways which you can relieve stress.  Relax in the tub and have scented candles glowing.  When is the last time you pampered yourself?  Think of ways in which you can treat yourself to a soothing experience each day.  Even if you only have 15 minutes to spare, make this a part of your daily routine.  Over time, you will reap the benefits.  Feel free to share with us your personal rituals/routines which you think we may benefit from.

I wish you all love and light.


                                  As a reminder... I am NOT Superwoman!