Listen to favorite music , Enjoy a relaxing nap, Enjoy a long, warm bubble bath or shower, Visit a museum or art gallery, Go for a walk, Practice yoga, Relax outside, Relax in a whirlpool or sauna, Physical activity (of my choice), Say or read a spiritual prayer, Attend a caring support group, Practice deep breathing, Do stretching exercises, Reflect on positive qualities “I am…”, Write my thoughts and feelings in a personal journal,  Concentrate on a relaxing scene, Create a collage representing the “real me” are some of the activities that we discuss with our clients to inspire exquisite self-care.

How posting your self-nurturing activities?  I think it will be a great way to keep us thinking about self-care and inspire others to do the same.

The suggestion for this challenge came from a client of mine, Kathe Kramer who has been regularly sharing her thoughts and ideas and it is a pleasure to be able to share her fresh outlook.

On a personal note, this week has been really hectic for me, with lots of meetings, business travel, and learning lots of new skills. It has been emotionally and intellectually draining for me and definitely difficult to make time for renewal and recharging my batteries.

So, today I took a power nap, met with a creativity artist who is going to speak at our support group in June, and I bought myself a new calendar.  You might wonder why in the world would a new calendar be “self-nurturing”?   Well, I got a brand new pink calendar so I can make sure to schedule fun and self-nurturing time.  I am a firm believer in goal setting and planning and this crisp, new calendar will help me do both.

No need to wait until 2011 to get a fresh start, I will start tomorrow morning as I mindfully schedule my personal time and challenge myself to make sure that I include one self-nurturing activity each day.

Please share what you will do to take good care of yourself.

Article By Rebecca Bitzer of Rebecca Bitzer & Associates, the largest and most experienced nutrition practice in Maryland, specializing in nutrition counseling for all ages. Find out how we can help you change your life for the better! For more nutrition information, tips, and blog posts, visit www.rbitzer.com

Photo By Tony O’ the Kilt