I have a confession. Isn’t that an enticing start? I’m a massage therapist and I haven’t had a massage in 18 months. Why would I share this? Because so many people struggle with self care and finding time for their health. I understand the struggle and I can help.
Before becoming a parent, I was oblivious to my biggest advantage in self care: time. It’s a constant theme in parenting. The logistics of keeping another life alive; while managing all the same responsibilities of being an adult with no additional resources and without losing your mind.
For the first time in a long time, I’m walking in the shoes of the clients that can benefit most from massage therapy. My excuses are the same ones my clients overcome to see me: I can’t find time, I can’t afford it. I’m stressed and tired.
My sleep quality nosedived and I struggle to muster much enthusiasm for my passions right now. I’m tired, anxious, disconnected. When the space I once filled with my passions was drained, it was easy for cynicism and a bit of bitterness to seep in. Writing it down is the first time I’ve felt real compassion for anyone, including myself, who is not receiving the gift of compassionate therapeutic touch.
For years, I practiced what I preached. As a massage therapist, self care is the foundation of career success and longevity. I’d get a massage or bodywork monthly. I made sleep a priority, drank copious amounts of water, lifted weights, cooked healthy whole food meals. It took losing my healthy routines to see how successful regular massage and self care were in maintaining a high level of functioning.
The touch and connection with the many wonderful massage therapists I received work from was a huge source of grounding and fuel for giving. That saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” is really hitting me dead center about now.
So here is where I begin again and fill my cup with gratitude, compassion, and unconditional positive regard for the people in my sphere. I hope you’ll join me and follow this blog as I share insights and practical advice on health, wellness, and fitness.
Quick tip for self care.
Take 3 deep breaths.
Yup, that’s it. Don’t feel a difference? Take three more. Your breath is one of the most powerful tools you have for taking control of both your physical and mental health.