I had a counselling session yesterday (FINALLY!), although it could more appropriately be referred to as a venting session <img border="0" title="" alt="[Roll Eyes]" src="images/icons/rolleyes.gif" /> . Anyways, I was laughing and telling her about how, to give myself a boost, I had THE most romantic shower the other week... by MYSELF!!! I had it by candlelight, listened to my Air Supply greatest hits cd, and sang out at the top of my lungs! It was so envigorating to me! <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />
Anyways... it reminded her about a pamphlet on "Self-Care" that she had at the centre, and she gave it to me. I want to share the list with all of you.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO POST YOUR OWN SUGGESTIONS AND IDEAS ON THIS THREAD - do deep breathing exercises
- get a therapeutic massage
- treat yourself to a new body cream/lotion
- wear favourite, comfortable clothing
- exercise
- soak feet in special foot soap
- join a yoga or stretching class weekly
- take a nap
- take a long walk
- read
- spend time with people who are affirming, optimistic and nuturing
- play/work outdoors
- save notes and letters that are complimentary, read them often
- learn new skills
- engage in new hobby
- write down self-positive adjectives
- notice and appreciate humour
- pray or meditate
- take at least 30 minutes alone time per day
- rent a comedy video
- light candles; buy fragrant candles
- puzzles, clay or "Silly Putty"
- plan a vacation
- image and visualize - concentrate on a comforting scene
- bring comforting photos to work (loved ones, vacations)
- order a pizza
- take a break
- find a special quiet place and make it your own
- eat healthy snacks, watch nutrition, take vitamins
- plan ahead - schedule medical and dental appts
- sit under the glow of a warm fireplace
- nourish your body with healthful warming soups
- allow yourself to discover new things about "you"
- add new elements that you want to include in your life
- notice your strengths
- realize that wherever you are today is the place to start
- be creative... sing, dance, paint, or write
- share happiness with someone else
- do something you've never done before
- nuture a loving atmosphere in your home
- enjoying a bubble bath with candles
- shower to wash off the day or stress
- enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea in silence
- just sitting and listening to music that makes you feel good
- dancing all by yourself to really loud, fun music
- drawing, painting, or just colouring in a child's colouring book
- talking on the phone to friends, or not answering the phone at all
- prepare yourself a good home-cooked meal
- go for a walk, do some exercise or pracice yoga
- do a crossword
- spend an afternoon at the library or "Chapters" and read for free
- plant a garden, pick fresh flowers or buy a small bouquet
- take the time to write in a journal
- enjoy a manicure or pedicure - share the experience with a friend
- enjoying time with children
- laughing from the belly
- join a group
- call a local helpline or distress line, if necessary
I hope some of you can make good use of these suggestions. It is VITALLY IMPORTANT to your plan A that you take care of YOU first! <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" /> Actually, that's a lesson learned that should never stop. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="images/icons/wink.gif" />
Karen
