In this post-partum season of life, I have been especially tired so I've been on a journey to find out what it means to rest and take care of myself in new circumstances. We only have so much time and energy to give away. Stripping away what does not benefit me helps me make space for what will bring me life.
What Do I Strip Away?
Stress is like a shield that keeps us from receiving the benefit of nourishing activities. In order to best position ourselves for nourishment, we must ruthlessly eliminate the stress factors we can control. Brain science shows us that simply putting a name to our emotion will help reduce the impact stress has on our well-being. Defining problems also guides us in searching for a solution. I've listed some common stressors below.
Stressors of the Mind:
Grief, loss
Suppressing authentic emotions
Unhealthy work environment
Emotional Unhealth
Poor self-concept
Mistreatment
Unreasonable expectations
Lack of emotional needs getting met
Overusing electronics
Living out of obligation or resentment
Unsatisfying relationships
Stressors of the Body:
Physical Pain
Sickness
Exposure to harmful chemicals or pollutants
Over working
Over exercising
Not exercising enough
Over or under eating
Consuming foods that lack nutrients
Consuming inflammatory foods
Vitamin deficiency
Circadian rhythm disruption
Lack of sleep
Substance abuse
Stressors of the Spirit
Neglect
Abuse
Traumatic experiences
Living misaligned from values
Behaving in ways you disapprove of
Participating in the occult (intentionally or unintentionally)
Unforgiveness
Loneliness
What Will Nourish Me?
Some of us know what we want and need. Its just a matter of doing it. For others, disconnection can cause a feeling of being lost.
We can practice self-connection by paying attention to emotions and body sensations. They hold information about what is going on inside of us. This information can help define our needs. Asking the following questions can be helpful.
What makes me feel connected, grounded, joyful and centered?
When in my past did I feel like the best version of myself? What was different about that time?
What do I really need?
What am I really afraid of?
Only you can define what your specific needs are, but here are some universal suggestions. You can look at these to get started. Does anything resonate?
Nourishment for the Mind:
Grieving well
Learning something new
Feeling seen, known, connected, understood
Feeling celebrated, believed in, championed
Feeling safe
Facing fears
Giving yourself a voice
Journaling
Practicing Mindfulness
Putting yourself in the right relationships
Inserting routines and daily structure
Having a clean environment
Nourishment for the Body:
Regular movement, exercise, stretching
Self-care, hygiene
Nutritious, healing foods
Taking herbs or supplements
Hydration
Sufficient sleep
Resting and relaxation
Essential oils
Hobbies
Creative outlet
Nourishment for the Spirit
Prayer
Worship
Play
Meaningful work
Practicing gratitude
Fasting
Practicing generosity
You can read Adele Calhoun's Spiritual Disciplines Handbook for many more ideas and resources for spiritually transformative practices.
Reflection
What practices help you get connected? What can you do today to nourish your mind, body, and spirit?
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