Self-care September
September is Self-care Awareness month. Oddly enough, September starts getting to be a busier time of the year - good things of course - school, holidays approaching, fall markets and festivals!! I have found when I practice self-care it allows for ten fold for giving care! I have met so many wonderful, caring people during my Hug Box days these last 10 years. I truly love how God blesses us with people that cross our paths. I hope you have a fabulous September and enjoy some self-care too!
Big long hug! Vicki
5 IDEAS TO PRACTICE A LITTLE SELF-CARE.
1. Set some goals. Healthy self-care habits and activities that make you happy are a great start for daily goals. This could be something as simple as reading a book for 15 minutes or taking a walk around the block. Remember that a small goal can make a big difference in your life. And also plan the bigger goals according to your season. Life is always changing, so it's ok to change up your goals. Here is a digital sample of the goal planning book by Christy Wright.
2. Have quiet time. Life can be filled with loud chaotic noise. Many people go an entire day without complete silence. From social media videos to kids running around, there is constantly noise to distract our thoughts. Take some time for quiet time, every day, to rest your body and mind. You can meditate, take a walk in nature, work in the garden, pray, sip some coffee or tea in a cozy quiet spot in the house. I covered some of these ideas and more in last month's blog.
3. Connect with a friend. It’s easy to lose touch with friends in our lives, especially with life changes and seasons. When was the last time you called somebody simply to catch up? Pick a friend you may be missing, and then pick up the phone to give them a call. It will be a benefit to both of your hearts.
4. Do something good for someone else. Yes, self-care awareness month is about your mental and physical health. But did you know that doing something good for others can help boost endorphins? Even the smallest acts of kindness can provide a boost to your day. Try one of these small things to brighten somebody else’s day, and your day at the same time:
1. Volunteer (at that nonprofit you've been drawn to for sometime).
2. Smile at everyone you see (walking down a street).
3. Mail a letter (to someone who isn't on social media).
4. Send a 'have a great day' text (to someone you haven't seen in awhile).
5. Send a Hug Box to a friend or family member who could use a hug. (They will give you a hug right back with their smile).
5. Practice saying no. The word ‘no’ often gets a bad rap, but it could be vital for your overload. Instead of devoting yourself to many projects where you’re stretched thin, go all-in on the project that brings you the most joy and excitement. Everybody needs a break, and you should actively consider whether or not taking on something new or attending an event will be good for your health and well-being.
It’s better to start small and be consistent with your self-care habits, building them over time. This ensures you stick to it. And make sure to set aside time to focus on you, so that you can be the best version of yourself out in the world. Just because it’s called “self-care” doesn’t mean you can’t help others in the process.
Here is a fun site I found that you can get more great ideas SELF-CARE SEPTEMBER created by Action for Happiness.
Here is another site that gives some wonderful insight. Self-care September. What care are your practicing? by five. good. friends.
DOWNTOWN NEWNAN - FUN EVENTS HAPPENING IN AUGUST!
PET OF THE MONTH - DOLLY
