2022 is only just getting started, but feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion seem to be at an all time high.
For many, the Christmas break proved to be anything other than restorative or relaxing. And between lockdowns, isolation, displaced family members,and the widespread scrambling for RAT tests, it’s understandable we’re all feeling completely burnt out.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
You can feel uplifted, energised, and empowered in 2022. All it takes is a little bit of self love and care.
In this article, I’m sharing some simple steps you can take each and every day to restore calm, feel more balanced, and preserve your energy for the things that truly matter.
Honoring your energy
The terms ‘self care’ and ‘self love’ are often associated with time - taking time for you, booking time for a massage, and having an allotted amount of time you give yourself permission to take on a given day.
While taking time for yourself might feel like the logical approach, self love is so much more than seconds, minutes, or hours. Real self love comes down to honouring and managing your energy so you can connect with, and show up as, your truest, most authentic self.
Overcoming your own resistance
The practice of self-love can be challenging for many of us. And if you feel resistance to it, you’re certainly not alone. Shifting into a mindset where you make yourself a priority often involves some work overcoming your own limiting beliefs.
Perhaps you feel fear of judgment from others, worry you might be labeled as indulgent or lazy, or maybe you don’t believe you can be as productive if you put yourself first.
The truth is, pouring from an empty cup is impossible. Without change, you’ll likely end up physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted.
In fact, in 2019 The World Health Organisation officially acknowledged burnout as an "occupational phenomenon…a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.” So it’s time to start looking at how you manage your energy and implement a little more self love.
“ We need to shift our thinking from the belief that we must always run at 110%. Your capacity should really be at around 80%, so you’ve always got a buffer. If you always have your foot on the accelerator, at some point you’ll run out of fuel completely.”
Deidre Dattoli | Credentialed Executive and Personal Coach
How to start your self love practice
Limit your screen time. In these times of flexible and remote working arrangements, many of us are working more than ever. Try to limit your time on phones and computers. This means no screens first thing in the morning or late at night before bed.
When overwhelm hits, take some time to ground. This can be as simple as walking into your garden and feeling the prickly grass between your toes. If you have more time, a trip to the beach or through a park is an extremely powerful way to re-energise and rebalance.
Ask yourself:
‘What is the most self-loving thing I can do in this moment?’
Nourish your body with food that tastes and feels good. Ensure you take breaks to eat as well. When you eat mindfully your body will thrive.
Get comfortable with stillness. Meditation is an incredible way to make yourself centred and focused, plus raise your vibration. Not sure where to start? Come join our 4-week group meditation circle and feel the energy and encouragement that comes within a meditation community.
Say kind things to yourself out loud. Rather than worry what others think, or wait to receive words of affirmation from others, give yourself the praise and love you need. These could be words of thanks for your achievements or for the ways your body supports you. It could also be as simple as a daily “I am strong / worthy / incredible” in front of the mirror each morning.
Forgive yourself. Release the embarrassment or shame of past mistakes and pain. Then you can make way for the emotions and energy that serve you better.
Embrace your creativity and express yourself authentically. Loudly sing along to your favourite song, or dance, paint, or write. Do whatever it is that feels good. And free yourself from your inner critic.
We all know our health and happiness should be our top priority, but sometimes creating change can be challenging. A great way to overcome this is to seek the support and guidance of the experts - those who’ve walked in your shoes.
Our Ignite program is designed for this exact purpose.
Ready to build your inner strength and self-confidence?
Want to put an end to the overwhelm and exhaustion?
Need personalised guidance and support along the way?
That’s what Ignite is all about.
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