“Be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars. In the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.” ~Max Ehrmann

While discussing self-care with one of my private clients (C.W.), a lovely woman who is clearly ready to put herself first and create a fulfilling life, we together (coaching is  partnership) came up with a simple daily ritual that helped her to better take care of herself.

Each and every morning, upon waking, she takes a moment to ask herself a simple question.

“How can I better take care of myself today?”

It is important to ask upon waking, or soon thereafter, before the noise of the day filters in and confuses the matter; thus, allowing an answer to rise from deep within.

We don’t want to think or force an answer. Just allow the answer to move from your unconscious mind to your conscious mind.

Because asking this question was new to both of us and not yet a part of our habitual thinking (Yes, I was partaking in the ritual, as well!), we thought it best to write the question on our respective calendars, as a safeguard, ensuring that we would remember to ask it!!!

Interestingly, the answers surfaced easily and varied from day to day, and the answers were more specific than just “I need to carve out more time for myself.”

The answers looked like:

“Today, between 2 and 3, I am going to take a walk to the park, sit on a bench and just be.”  Or – “This morning, before I head into the shower, I am going to declutter the dining room table for 15 minutes.” Or – “Tonight, I am going to call my friend, Ellen, whom I haven’t seen for too long and make a date with her.” Or – “Today, I am NOT going to say YES to ____________________.” Or – “Today, I am going to pay attention to my illuminated self and say NO to _______________.”

I invite you to take part in this simple ritual. Ask yourself, “How can I better take care of myself today?” See what surfaces and for sure, weigh in … write in … share your experience.

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