In nature, Spring marks new beginnings, birth, and growth. While the new year is the beginning of the calendar year, our body’s natural rhythm is more aligned and in sync with nature. Like, animals that are still in slumber, this is a time to wind down earlier and sleep in. Even the sun rises later in the day and sets earlier.
We can use nature as a gentle reminder, each year, that it is okay to start slow or at our own pace and rhythm.
Winter is also a time to reflect on what you want for the New Year. Below is a writing exercise you can use to help you think of ways to add self-care to your day/ week or make a plan for what you will do in times of stress or challenge.
Self-Care Reflection
Grab a journal and take a moment to reflect on the following:
- What were the highlights of 2021? What were you doing? Who were you with? How did you feel?
- What hobbies or activities did you do that brought you joy, lifted your spirits or made the day fly?
- During moments of challenge what did you do to cope with the challenge? Or what did you do to over come the challenge? Would you take that same action if the challenge emerged again or would you find a different, healthier strategy? If so, what strategy would you use?
- Think about how you want 2022 to be for you. What are you doing? Who are you with? What is the state of your relationships? How is your physical health? How is your mental health? How do you feel?
- What can you do to incorporate #1, #2 and #4 to sustain you in 2022? (You may choose to set time aside each morning to focus on your mindset. Or make time each week to read, write, or paint. You can plan time each month to stay in for a few hours to rest, sleep in or veg out. Or, maybe you incorporate what you enjoy during times of high stress, anxiety, etc.)
- Finally, on an index card or small piece of paper write down a word, or phrase that will help you rememeber how you prefer to step back, reset, de-stress or relax. Place the index card in your car, purse or wallet or office to remind yourself each day of your self care goals.
We wish you the best of luck on your self-care journey.
In the comments, let us know what you learned from your reflection. Or share your self-care goals with us.
Heartspace Circle 