Self-Care

Self-Care

A couple of weeks ago, I was invited to the annual family day gathering put on by my former employer, a local first nations band. It provided a lot of entertainment for the children - waterslides and bouncy castles and a lot of things for the adults as well. There was faceprinting, eyebrow threading, tinsels woven into hair, braiding and of course a catered healthy lunch.

It was a great day to catch up with old friends, people watching and laughter. I was greatly amused that when a child called out "Auntie" so many heads turned their attention to the child. Auntie is a name for females in your life who may or not be related to you by blood, and carries love and respect, and a source for comfort.

It struck me that this day was the ultimate in self care. Doing something fun, having some luxuries to your physical being, and conversations with hugs, smiles and laughter for your soul. The pandemic isolated everyone so much, and that particular art of self care (sharing with others) was set aside.

It felt good. Such a magic day. I wanted to write this blog about it because it spoke to me about what is needed to look after ourselves, inside and out. When that is paid attention to, we are more able to deal with the stresses that come along like a bus, every 15 minutes.

Take the time for a walk, a cup of tea, a good book, spending time in the garden and or just sitting still to appreciate the good things in our world. Nothing to sell or buy to achieve that. Self-care, ultimately, is about giving ourselves the freedom to just carve out some pieces of time that are just for us.