Mindful Self-Love: You Matter
So, it’s February and there’s this holiday that’s just around the corner…Valentine’s Day/Galentine’s Day/Self-love day/whatever you want to call it. Honestly, it can be overrated for those of us who are single or even for those in a relationship. Maybe it’s just a way for businesses to make money. Hah. Today, I’d like to share about my journey toward mindful self-love/mindful self-compassion. It can feel selfish at times, but if we don’t schedule in time for ourselves “me time,” it can often get overlooked. This season I invite you to mindfully prioritize self-love. Here’s what I’ve been up to ever since moving to San Francisco almost 3 months ago?!
Taking a walk in nature - I’m fortunate to work near Lands End, so post-work, I do a quick stroll. Man oh man, the views on a clear day can be breathtaking - the ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, etc. Hiking can be an incredibly rich sensory experience.
Taking a bubble bath - I’m embarrassed to admit it, but I didn’t know that you could just put liquid soap into the tub and it turns into bubble bath if we swish it hard enough…or use the jacuzzi tub. Again, this can be quite a sensory experience as well. Touching and smelling the bubble. Why not?
Going on a retreat - so I just came back from a mindfulness retreat that observed “noble silence” (no talking) and what a difference it made in terms of recharging my battery. One of my favorite parts was eating with 30 other occupational therapists (OTs) in total silence. I could really taste the freshness of the salad, the almonds, the cheese, the chicken, etc. Food never tasted so good. I call it an introvert’s dream - not having to worry about what how I’ll be perceived to others or wondering about what to say to people. For my OT friends interested in mindfulness, feel free to look into getting an advanced certificate through San Jose State University’s OT program here.
Using a camera to take pictures - my holiday splurge was digital mirrorless camera. I’m hoping to start recording videos and take pictures more. Photography can be a mindful experience as we notice our surroundings more.
Doing a body scan - start from one side of the body and mentally scan through each part. Observe, feel, and release any tension. Feel the difference afterwards. 6. Digital detox - in this day an age, it’s easy to be bombarded by so much information a.k.a. garbage. It’s your responsibility to protect your sacred energy. Be mindful about what you choose to let into your awareness. You have the power of choice. Less screen time = more sanity.
_____ - fill in the blank. Share in the comments about how you can tailor mindful self-compassion to fit your needs/your lifestyle. :)