Nurturing ourselves

It seems like it takes a heartbreak to remind me to nurture myself. To be strong in my mind, body and spirit. I am forced to look inward. To spend time licking my wounds, but then to gird up my loins and say to myself, "Look babe, it's time to move on. He's not worth it, but you are. The world needs you. Become strong and become brave."

I want to be brave and strong. Ready to face the world and anything with testicles! I am a beautiful, passionate, intelligent woman, full of love, with a story to share, desiring to lavish someone with love and compassion. I am giving. I am funny. I am smart. I am a survivor and I will survive this. I AM surviving this. I will not allow a man who is not worth me to bring me down and to cause me to be less than what I am.

I will be kind to myself (thank you, sweet Sandra). I will give myself the grace that I give unto others. I will take care of myself as I would take care of my mate; of my offspring. I will nurture myself, I will be kind and gentle, I will be patient, I will give myself what I need, I will listen to myself, I will trust myself and my intuition. I will take time out to be quiet, to learn, to draw nearer to those things that are pure and strong.

Some things to remind me - some ideas for you - May we all cherish ourselves for the beauties that we are, created in His image.

Suggestions for ways to nurture yourself

Reading
Restoring antiques/carpentry
Kicking leaves
Going to a concert
Shopping
Walking on the beach
Doing craft work
Travelling
Crying
Laughing
Going to the theatre
Asking for a cuddle
Going on a trip to a fun fair
Writing to friends or writing poems
Walking the dog
Being in the country
Playing a musical instrument
Giving a party
Playing a sport
Painting, drawing
Swimming
Having a facial, make-up etc.
Dancing
Going to a restaurant
Wearing something that feels good
Taking regular moderate exercise
Having takeaway food, so you don't need to cook
Being with children
Taking a course for pleasure
Pursuing hobbies
Being with animals
Rearranging your room
Walking barefoot
Making presents for friends
Redecorating your house
Skinny dipping
Singing
Gardening
Going to the library
Taking a long bath
Sitting in the sun
Watching TV or a good movie
Baking/cooking a supply of food
Just sitting and thinking outside
Taking a holiday
Being with friends
Going to the zoo
Staying at home
Having a rest during the day
Going to a park or gardens
Getting enough sleep
Doing your hair
Having a glass of good wine
Being around positive people
Playing some music
Listening to the radio
Having a massage
Learning a language
Inviting friends over
Doing a yoga or tai chi class
Watching people
Giving gifts
Meditating
Window shopping
Tidying your wardrobe
Nurturing your spirit
Looking through magazines
Cleaning your shoes
Emailing a friend
Going for a drive
Buying food you like
Buying a poster or picture you like
Doing a course
Going to the museum or art gallery
Planning something good for the future
Solving a crossword, puzzle etc.
Having a shower
Going to bed early
Completing a task
Ringing a friend
Going camping, bush walking
Playing cards
Going to the movies
Sleeping in late.

What a great list!

http://www.asca.org.au/survivors/survivors_simplesuggestions.html