Journey to Self Love
So much of what I do with women in my practice is really inviting what I understand to be self-love. Starting a personal relationship with oneself can feel almost mystical at first. Discovering the proper diet for instance can be a gauntlet of trends that do not support oneself and can lead to self-loathing and potential harm. This can also be true with exercise and finding that perfect blend of cardio and strength training that we can sustain long enough to manifest results. Getting enough rest, taking time to poop everyday and to just do nothing are all aspects of self-love.
Starting the journey can come from a painful separation or experience that rocks us to the core and inspires us to do better “next time.” As my step dad says “its easier to love yourself than someone else” (and he has been married to my mother for 25 years)!
Here are some first steps you take on your journey to yourself
Journal. I know, I know, I have so many journals with five entries. Just start again. You can categorize each entry with sleep, dream, food, exercise, and goals met for the day. (Remember to write all food that passes the mouth, not just the salads)
Take time to poop every day. Those of you, the lucky ones, do this automatically, congratulations! As for the rest of us, give 15 minutes every morning on the throne. Try to go before eating. Which can prevent food stagnation and smelly gas. A warm cup of honey lemon water before is helpful. Journal your poop, it is speaking to you about your health!
Meditate daily. Start with 15 minutes a day for a month then add 5 minutes a month until you reach 60 minutes a day. Meditate in the same place at the same time every day. You can sit on the ground, on a cushion, or on a chair. Be quiet and breath. Do not move!