Solaris is enjoying the California sunshine with me from the shade of our willow tree.
(Click the image to view the video on my TikTok account.)
I practice taking moments for myself throughout the day to fill myself up and I love sitting in the yard and listening to the sounds around me as the breeze passes by.
Sol is my ESA in Training and she does such a good job of letting me know when I’m pushing too far. If I’ve been sitting at my desk for too long, she reminds me it’s time to take a break and we go outside for 10-30 minutes to sit and relax, meditate and journal, play, or chat with someone on the phone.
Going outside is such an important part of my daily wellness routine. Did you know regular sunlight exposure can help with depression? It does wonders for me!
Sitting in my quiet spot of shade outside and being surrounded by growing flowers, butterflies, and hummingbirds fills my soul and brings me peace. The warmth of the sun, the feel of the wind, and the sound of the leaves rustling as they pass through the branches of my willow tree allow me to relax and de-stress, get a handle on my anxiety, and gives me time to reflect and have a mindful moment with myself.
I watch my dogs as they play and chase each other around the yard or lay in peaceful stillness. They remind me that taking in who I am in the present moment and nourishing myself is beautiful and just as precious as the future version of myself I’m working towards.
These moments are so important and invaluable, and being consistent in taking these moments for myself has been so motivating and made significant positive changes in my daily mindset.
Life isn’t meant to be rushed or auto-piloted through. It’s meant to be experienced and enjoyed, and even amid our responsibilities and busy schedules, these moments can be found if you put your intentions towards creating them for yourself.
Practices like this allow me to manage my C-PTSD and Chronic Illness symptoms in a positive and healing way. It allows me to pause and validate myself; to celebrate my accomplishments no matter how small. It teaches me to prioritize my peace and see myself, my time, my energy, and my mental and physical health as valuable and deserving of my love and nurturing.
If you’re looking to make a positive change in your daily routine this week then try this one: Look for moments to reward and nurture yourself with. Whether it’s fifteen, ten, or five minutes at a time commit to seeking out moments of mindfulness throughout your day that will help you to fill up your cup.
What’s your #selfcareritual for today? I’d love to hear about it!
Tell me in the comments.
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