You are Worthy of Your Time

Think it sounds selfish to nurture yourself? There are tons of great reasons why we should spend at least a small percentage of our time taking care of ourselves. Taking time out to care for yourself will actually sustain you in light of the busy schedules we keep and the fast-paced world we live in. And the best part? What we do to nurture ourselves doesn’t need to take a long time.

If it’s been a long time since you have considered doing something nurturing for yourself, check out this list of potential ideas. Some items on the list might sound great to you, and others might not. Think of the list as a way to get you started on considering  what might be nourishing for you. Nurturing yourself is about identifying what your needs are – and taking small steps towards meeting them. What activity might you do that will bring you a sense of calm, or a sense of joy?

What will nurture you? 

• Take a walk (or any form of exercise)
• Work or sit in your garden
• Try yoga (or an exercise class)
• Play with your pet (if you have one)
• Draw, paint, scrapbook, etc. – anything artistic
• Start reading a novel (or listen to an audio book)
• Take a moment to say some positive affirmations to yourself
• Cozy up on the couch with a favourite television show or movie
• Write in your journal: notice what has been going on for you lately, or explore what your own strengths are
• Take the time to learn about you – try counselling
• Walk in nature, take some pictures while there
• Enjoy a relaxing bath (or a soothing shower)
• Write to a friend (yes, many people still enjoy receiving snail mail letters!)
• Are you religious? Attend a service at your church
• Try knitting or crocheting (there might even be a knitting circle in your community)
• Do some tasty baking or cooking
• Learn something new (check out the classes offered at your recreation centre or community arts centre, or try an online course)
• Work on a hobby
• Start a puzzle
• Try a meditation
• Sometimes are self-nurturing moments involve others: Talk with a good friend or loving family member; Play a fun or silly game with your children; Try hiking together (or plan a fun outing together)

Chances are, if you are reading a blog about mindful parenting, you likely spend a great deal of time caring for others. How about taking a moment each week to treat yourself as kindly as you treat others? After all, you are worth your time!
​
This article was originally posted on October 3, 2010, to Happy Parents = Happy Kids (focusedonparenting.wordpress.com) by Susan Guttridge