Sail through the rest of January with some self love

Hello beautiful soul,  

How are you doing? Some of you may be feeling a little down in the dumps this January, which I guess is normal for this time of the year. We always go on a family ski holiday at the end of January for this very reason. It gives us something to work towards and also look forward too. Needless to say this annual escape is not happening this year. 

So how can you sail through the rest of the month when January traditionally holds all of the calendars ‘sad’ ingredients? 

Firstly, don’t berate yourself if you’re feeling a little flat this month, the odds are very much against you so give yourself a break. Remember, that just like the seasons, our mood goes through high and lows. 

The important thing to know is that a little self care goes along way and can truly support you in finding more emotional balance this month.

Read on for some ideas on self love / self care.

1. If you are over-committed, simplify your schedule. Are there things that you need to let go? Ask yourself which activities and relationships are truly adding value to your life and intentionally make space for those things.

2. Do something that energises your body. Go for a run, do yoga or whatever physical activity you enjoy. Exercise is a key part of self-care.

3. Take a long, warm bath. While you're at it, light a candle, read a magazine, listen to soothing music or a beautiful sound bath.

4. Create a Gratitude List. Write down all the things that you're thankful for.

5. If you feel you need extra support book a session/s with a counsellor. This could be a psychologist, therapist or spiritual mentor.

6. Unplug for a day. Go on a media and technology fast and turn off any unnecessary devices.

7. Stretch. Find the kinks and tension spots in your body and stretch them out.

8. Do something new. Have you been considering learning a new skill or trying a new hobby? Now is the time to go for it.

9. Practice mini-meditation. Begin or end your day with a minute of deep breathing and focused awareness of your body, thoughts and feelings.

10. Dance it out. Put on your favourite dance music, turn the volume up and move/shake your body. As the saying goes “dance like nobody is watching.”

11. Write or journal your thoughts. Take 10 minutes and jot down whatever is on your mind. Mentally release those things as you write them.

12. Get quality time with a quality person. Hang out (online) with someone who you love.

13. Be still. Find a quiet place outside and embrace the stillness.

14. Practice a full day of Sabbath rest. Take a full day to rest and rejuvenate.

15. De-clutter. Choose a place - your email inbox, your desk, a closet - and get rid of the excess and junk.

16. Do an activity mindfully and slowly. Savour the moment and experience your activity with attentiveness.

17. Take a walk. Explore your area at a leisurely pace.

18. Reflect on your personal mission statement. If you don't have a personal mission statement, create one.

19. Enjoy a piece of chocolate or a glass of wine. Better yet, enjoy both together. Not for those doing dry January clearly!

20. Sleep. Take a nap, go to bed earlier, give your body some extra rest.

As ever if you'd like to get in touch please email me hello@vickypaul.com.