That’s what’s up! Self-Love Summer is all about changing the way I take care of myself starting now.
I’m into my summer break about 2 weeks and I’ve gone in a slightly different direction than I expected. Normally, as a teacher, I create this summer agenda for myself, including several things to accomplish, now that I have time.
I felt anxiousness, like a greyhound dog waiting at the gate for the start of the race around the track of summer break – CLEAR THAT!
How I’ve shifted into a little self-love this summer:
Sleeping: I go to bed around 10pm and wake up around 6am. Lately, I wake at 4am, go pee and go back to bed instead of waking up and getting my day started. As I lay back down, I slip into a dream state and I dream some amazing dreams during this time. I even remember a few of them – like my friend entering a swimming pond full of alligators and memories of my mom in her workplace where all her work friends were talking so fondly about her to me, as if she were still alive. Dreaming is very insightful and interesting. Instead of criticizing myself over not waking up early, I’m shifting the vibe and allowing myself to enjoy where I AM.
Waking: I do some deep breathing, I hug myself for at least 20 seconds (releases serotonin), and I smile and greet myself while looking in the bathroom mirror, just before brushing my teeth.
Moving/Exercise: I’ve done joint mobility exercises a few times and yoga a few times and I’ve enjoyed going out dancing with friends. I planned on doing more age appropriate exercises on a regular basis. Instead of blaming myself, I am allowing myself a little self-compassion and finding joy in how relaxed I truly feel after concluding a challenging year of teaching. I know I will enjoy doing my exercises when my decompression concludes. Again, I am enjoying where I AM.
Traveling: In a few days, my adult daughter and I will be enjoying a 4 day getaway in Bolivia, North Carolina seeing family and having some FUN! This is a cherry on top for sure!
I give myself permission to let go and enjoy the art of relaxation, before I get to the doing part of my summer vacation.
My self care and self love will continue after summer break – I am integrating it into my every day way of living.
Psychology Today explains three science-based benefits of self-love, outlined in their article here: 3 Powerful Science-Based Benefits of a Little Self Love
What I’ve Learned: I AM taking better care of myself this summer – not just by doing, but balancing it with being.
This summer how are you allowing and giving yourself permission to practice self-compassion and self-love?
Kelli P Coats 