Making time for self-care
We are all busy. Busy working, caring for children or elderly parents, keeping house etc – the list is endless. Yet one of the most valuable acts, that of prioritising our own wellbeing in a way that is meaningful, is often considered to be an indulgence, and deprioritised.
I think we would all agree that regular nourishment of body, mind and spirit are necessary to keep us healthy and have a positive impact on ourselves and those around us. Over the years I've become increasingly interested in why it can sometimes be so difficult to prioritise such pursuits. Life will continually present us with reasons for putting self-care low on the priority list - an indulgence for 'when we have time'. But the imperative tasks that drive us daily are severely hampered when any part of the body-mind-soul trinity is out of kilter.
I know through repeated experience, that when I have a consistent and regular Yoga practice, I can think more clearly so I make better decisions. I feel good in my body, so I feel like doing what needs doing, I have more energy and enthusiasm. I am walking my ‘natural path, in harmony with body, mind and soul, being true to myself.
For me, my Yoga practice offers me all of this - but only if I put in the time to practice. That said, even though Yoga is huge part of my life, there are times when I find it difficult to bring myself to do the very thing that I know would bring me ease (usually when I am stressed!).
This is what inspires me to practice Yoga – that by sharing its gifts I can truly nourish myself. This is one of the reasons I chose to become a Yoga teacher; I wanted to share the power of Yoga with others. I am very grateful to anyone that chooses to turn to me for 1:1 advice and support or join me in my weekly classes or attend my workshops or retreats - you motivate me to put in the time for myself so that I can always teach from an authentic and inspired place. Thank you!
It is easy to let a practice slip, to get out of the habit, to find our time eaten up by something which seems to be more pressing. Perhaps it’s about looking at our Yoga practice from a different perspective?
The purpose of Yoga is NOT to get good at Yoga. I like to think of Yoga as something that is meant to support you in whatever it is you want to do with your life - and if you can make that association, you will have all the motivation you need to put in the time you need for true self-care.
When you find the motivation and time to regularly practise Yoga yourself, you have begun to master the art of self-care. I’d love to see you on the mat!
