Notes on Self Care for September
Lines taken from the poem 'September' by Helen Hunt Jackson (click image for a link to the full version)
September is here and is making its presence felt. Now is the time for new beginnings, gathering our energy inwards and finding ways to nourish body, mind and spirit that will stand us in good stead for the autumn and winter months ahead.
In our busy and task-driven culture, we often view self care as a luxury. Something we overlook in favour of ‘higher priorities’ like work projects, house chores, taking care of others’ needs and so on.
As the saying goes though, you can’t pour from an empty cup; in order to go out into the world and nourish others, we need to learn to take care of ourselves first.
And so getting better at self care is something, ironically, that’s currently high on my to do list 😂
In case it helps to share, here are some of the ways I’m trying to build self care into my daily routine (in addition to practising yoga, obvs 😊).
Morning meditation - the school holidays somewhat disrupted my mornings and although I quite enjoy the change in routine that the summer months offer, it feels good to get back to starting the day in quiet contemplation. If you’re new to meditation or find it tricky (like most of us!) make sure you’re sitting comfortably and start small, you can always sit for longer when you’re ready. Don’t worry about the thoughts coming and going, that’s completely normal. The practice is noticing them, not trying to stop them. Guided meditations might be a good place to start and there are lots of free apps offering that type of content, Insight Timer being one of my faves.
Kitchen experiments - inspired by my 13 year old son, we’ve been trying to cut down on processed foods lately. Experimenting with new, nourishing meal recipes and low / no sugar bakes has been fun. An added bonus is that it’s given a welcome shake-up to the weekly meal planning task! (Top tip - if you can enlist the help of someone else in the household here, it really makes a difference).
Homemade heroes - I’ve also been experimenting with homemade lotions and potions (see @yourmategingerkate on Instagram for recipes) and making my own yoga mat spray with essential oils. It’s amazing what you can cook up at home with the right ingredients!
A 15 minute Savasana every day - restorative yoga pioneer, Judith Hanson Lasater and her daughter, Lizzie, have long advocated for the power of rest and the importance of adding a formal relaxation period into the day. If you think you’re too busy for this then take that as a sign that you definitely need it - here’s one to get you started.
Noticing the changes in nature - getting out for a walk for at least 10 minutes is a simple way to boost your immune system (so important as the weather gets damper) and connect with the changing energy of the seasons so get out there whenever you can.
What are your self care essentials? I’d love to know ❤️
