There is only one guideline to follow for indulging yourself – do something that will make you feel good both mentally and physically. Eating an entire chocolate cake isn’t the direction I’m going here. This is about learning to take care of yourself so you aren’t in a constant state of stress.
When we do something that makes us happy, especially if it isn’t a necessity and it doesn’t benefit anyone else, there is a satisfaction that comes with it of showing ourselves kindness. This may bring up different feelings as many of us have been taught that treating ourselves is selfish and we should always be giving to others instead.
The problem with this is that when you aren’t giving to yourself too, you have much less to give to anyone else.
Action – Take care of yourself in some way today. This can be something simple like getting more rest, getting a massage, or going for a walk. The things you used to enjoy doing that you don’t have time for anymore are good options, like reading or playing a game.
The point is to take some of your attention away from all of the people and tasks that constantly demand something from you and giving yourself permission to do an activity that is only for you.
Steps – If you need more sleep, find a way to get to bed a little earlier. Take a long bath or a hot shower without thinking about all of the things you should be doing. Turn off the electronics and take some time to tune in and slow down. When you eat a meal, sit and do only that. Notice the taste of the food and how it makes you feel.
By slowing down and enjoying whatever you are doing at the moment, you are allowing your body to relax and function better. Constantly rushing around and stressing about life invites illness and a multitude of physical aches and pains into your existence. Take the time today to really feel what you are feeling and see if you can unwind just a bit.
Why It Makes You Feel Better – Right now, take a long, deep breath and then let it out slowly through the mouth. Give yourself permission to let go. If you feel a difference in your stomach, like a gentle release, then you are likely existing in a clenched state that will inhibit the body’s ability to remain healthy.
The effects of stress are real. High blood pressure, headaches, skin conditions, depression, anxiety, and a multitude of other issues can be directly related to the amount of stress in your life. Your sleep patterns can be affected, and that in itself will cause a host of other problems. Low energy, upset stomach, chronic digestive issues, and frequent colds or infections can all be related to an inability to manage stress.
Taking the time to allow yourself some enjoyment is a way to reconnect with what is important in life and to remind you to enjoy the journey instead of always rushing to get somewhere.
Example – Reading relaxes me. So does going to bed at a decent time, or getting a massage. Anything that allows me to slow down and notice my breathing is a chance to let go of thoughts that tell me I should be doing a thousand other things.
Find something that you can do today that is just for you. Discover an opportunity to indulge in the small pleasures in life and know that you are doing something positive for your health.