"When you make Self
Care a habit, even a few moments at a time, you
are better able to support yourself, others, and
our world with greater energy, kindness and love".
Hello All,
As the New Year approaches, I invite
you to join me in my 2011 Reflection/2012
Contemplation. Over the course of two weeks
or so, I spend most mornings curled up in my recliner
with a cup of calming tea and my journal. Each time I
sit, I contemplate one of the questions below.
I begin by getting grounded in the present
and connected to myself. I do this with a few moments
of quiet stillness, mindful breathing, and conscious relaxation.
Once I feel centered, I reflect on the question I've chosen
for the day and write the answers as they come to me.
There are no rules. No right or wrong
way to do this. You could do this Reflection/Contemplation
in one day or take a full month. You can write two sentences
per question or two pages. You can answer all of these
questions, or just the ones that speak to your heart.
You can even create your own Empowering Questions. If
writing is not your thing, you can just as easily reflect
on these questions without writing.
For me, this is a very sacred and inspiring
way to acknowledge and release my past year to make way
for the new year. For this reason, I recommend answering
the questions in the order presented, but again do what
works best for you. Give yourself permission to find a
little quiet time, take your time, and reflect away!
Before
you read the questions below, join me in two very long,
slow,
easy breaths and relax your shoulders as you exhale...........
2011
Reflection
What are my accomplishments?
What did I learn
about myself?
What have I released?
What character traits
did I strengthen in myself?
2012 Contemplation
What are my top
three priorities this year?
(Knowing this can help you to make more mindful decisions
in 2012.)
What character traits
do I want to strengthen in myself this year?
What are two healthier
actions I can take to practice Self Care this year?
What is my 2012
Purpose-Full Plan?
(This can be a simple plan-in-process, a detailed plan,
or somewhere in between.)
Be gentle with yourself,
yet challenge and inspire yourself to grow into a Healthier
You in 2012!
Take time for you, take care of you, and remember that
every moment you spend on Self Care - no matter how brief
- contributes to creating a healthier, calmer, more peace-filled
you. This serves you, your family, your community, and
the world.
Thank you to all who responded so favorably
to my last newsletter. It is so inspiring to hear your
thoughts on my work in the world. If you found this newsletter
helpful please pass it on. The more people we help to
practice Self Care and Mindful Living, the more peace
and kindness we’ll have in our world. Promise.
