Welcome, dear readers, to my first post in an ongoing blog series I’m doing with Breathing Spaces: Compassionate Conversations. I’m Cindy Gum, and it warms my heart to embark on this year’s journey of self-discovery and emotional care with each of you.
Before we delve into the theme of emotional self-care, let me share a personal moment. This morning when I began my journaling practice, I paused as I often do, but noticed how nurtured I felt as I sipped a quiet cup of coffee and it reminded me of the power within simple acts of self-care.
It reminded me of a quote by Louisa May Alcott: “The power of finding beauty in the humblest things makes home happy and life lovely.”
This year I will focus upon the vital practice of emotional self-care. In the intricate dance of life’s demands, self-care is the gentle reminder to prioritize our well-being. And It’s the compassionate dialogue we foster within ourselves that helps us navigate the ups and downs, the ebb and flow, of our emotional well-being.
Compassionate conversations are meant to help you look within yourself for kindness. Whether you simply think about it, or talk about it with a buddy, or write about it in your journal, my hope is that it helps you in some to hold a compassionate conversation within yourself. To me, the definition of self-compassion is kindness turned inward.
Inquiries
- Notice and name small acts of self-care.
- Can you claim them as your own – perhaps adding a few more into your daily routine?
Insights
- In my own journey, I’ve realized that emotional self-care is not indulgence; it’s a courageous act of self-acceptance.
- Each conversation we have with ourselves ripples into all parts of our life. Take a moment to honestly look at your self-talk. Is it kind?
Inspirations
- Here is an inspirational thought from Audrey Lorde, an American writer, professor, philosopher and poet:
“Self-care is not about self-indulgence, it’s about self-preservation.”
**I invite you to share your favorite self-care rituals or insights in the comments below.
A Compassionate Affirmation for the month:
“Today, I choose to honor my well-being. In caring for myself, I nurture the strength to care for others.”
With gratitude and warmth,
Cindy
Note: In addition to joining our blog team as a regular contributor, Cindy hosts the monthly Journaling Journeys compassion circle. We invite you to join us.