Celebrating you! - By Rebecca LaWind

 

“You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” -Buddha

The importance of self-love and nurturing one’s self is vital in order to love others.

It’s so easy in our culture today to be instantly available to others via technology and before we know it, much of the day has passed. As a mother of two children and massage therapist and yoga teacher, I understand the importance of letting go of caregiving and taking time, even for a moment, so that I can rejuvenate. If not, I find myself unable to be fully present and positive for others. I wonder how often we stop and notice how we are breathing, (how deep or shallow it is), or take a break outside to feel fresh air on our skin, or notice how our bodies feel, or are aware of patterns of negative or positive self-talk. Do we acknowledge what makes us truly happy? The simple act of being aware and witnessing can create changes and shifts that are positive and life changing. As we go within, focusing on our inner world, that is where true wisdom and divine love reside. We just have to observe and listen.

Some other ideas for self-care and love may be to eat wholesome foods, take a quiet adventure in the woods, journal or write yourself a love note, say positive affirmations to yourself, take a bath, sauna or hot tub soak, receive bodywork, take a yoga class, partake in your favorite hobby, exercise, and play or dance to music. Most importantly, remember to let go of judgments and have fun, laugh, sing and celebrate you!

Rebecca LaWind is owner of LaWind Wellness, Massage Therapy and Yoga and Zen Den Youth Yoga in Windham. On February 22, youth classes will be offered at Raindrop Yoga Studio focusing on self-love at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. To contact Rebecca, email columnist@TheWindhamEagle.com.