If you’ve found yourself depleted in life, take a closer look at how you’re giving back to you. After all, there is no substitution for the love and care that you’re willing to gift yourself.
BY: VICTORIA YATES, RN
Do you have those days when you are deep in thought and in a pensive mood, and want to just focus on pouring energy into yourself more than others? And when you do make time just for yourself, do you feel like it’s a selfish act? Well, don’t.
Because in order to be good, kind, and generous to others, you need to first be at a place with yourself where you are kind and compassionate with yourself.
After all, you can only give more of you if your cup has been filled up.
Even when you’re doing the things you enjoy, when it’s taken to the extreme, it can still wear you down. And in those moments, it’s more important than ever to recognize that you need to turn your focus inward and cater to your own needs for solitude, rest, and meditation. It’s not selfish, and people will thank you for the time you spend for yourself because you’ll be a better human being to them as well. Here are a few reasons why you need to give back to yourself.
1. A more focused mind.
Have you ever tried to do it all, but found that you were doing none of them very well? That’s what happens when you have too much on your plate. Taking a step back and turning towards mindfulness practices can help you focus on the things that are most important. Rediscover your relationship with a loved one by spending quality time together while trying new foods and experiences. Find joy and fulfillment from your everyday life, rather than stressing over things that are preventing you from living in the present.
2. Better sleep.
Sleep is an important part of your health, so sticking to a specific nighttime routine will help you wind down. Put away work and pick up a book before bed, which naturally leads to better sleep because your eyes aren’t plagued by the bright white light from a computer screen. You’ll find that you’re able to turn off your thoughts more easily and wake up more rested when you intentionally listen to your need for rest. Turn your phone on airplane mode at a certain time every night, preferably at least an hour before bed. Eat enough at dinner to satisfy you so you will go to bed not thinking about food.
3. New intentions.
When we’re able to calm the noise around us, that’s when we are able to hear and respond to new opportunities that help us grow and step into more of who we’re meant to be. As you take the time to turn inward, learn more about what you want your life to look like and the next steps you can take to get there. By slowing down, being at peace, and letting go of the pressure to stay at the same pace, you will open yourself to new ideas and opportunities.
4. More attunement.
Turning inward and slowing down to take time for yourself can help you learn more about your body. When we can trust our bodies for being the incredibly designed vehicles they are, we can start to see how all the external pressures of our society’s diet culture and body ideals keep us from having a greater understanding of our bodies.
Remember, giving back to you will look differently for each of us. Maybe for you, it means waking up and going to yoga instead of hitting the gym. Maybe journaling in the morning is what works best for you. Maybe it’s about saying “no” to something you’re asked to do that you’ve said “yes” to in the past from pure obligation.
Whatever it is that you do, choose to take care of you.
Adapted from the original article.
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Victoria Yates, RN is a Registered Nurse & Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor based in Westchester, NY who focuses on helping women reach a healthier relationship with food and their bodies. She is passionate about guiding others reprogram negative thoughts around food and body image so they may experience a truly joyful life. Learn more about Victoria Yates Nutrition.