Women, in general, are nurturers, but in our quest to be the best (trite, but true), we tend to look after everyone else and over look ourselves. So how is a busy, modern woman like you supposed to get a break? Give yourself one! Here are three ways to do it:
1. Nurture Your Spirit
Talk to God every day during a time set aside for just the two of you. Take a moment or two with as few distractions as possible, and tell him what’s on your heart.
Yes, he is God, so he knows everything anyway, but like any dad, he wants to hear it from you. And he’s not just any dad! He loves you just as you are because he made you the way you are. Don’t take my word for it, read Psalm 139. You are “…wonderfully made,” and he loves you beyond anything our finite minds can measure.
Buy yourself a notebook and start a prayer journal. Date each entry, and in the days and weeks ahead, you’ll be amazed at how God has moved in your life. (Reminder: God isn’t Santa Claus, so be sure you take time to list your blessings, too, and thank him for every one of them.)
2. Nurture Your Mind
Don’t stagnate.
Think of something you love to do, and do it! I’m not telling you to write a book, I’m merely suggesting you read one. Start with a chapter a day. Or watch a movie. (One that isn’t animated.)
Don’t hibernate.
Invite a friend or two to do something with you, even if it’s sitting around the dining room table. Talk, share, commiserate, cry. Forget the old adage to get a grip. This one’s better: get a giggle! They’re contagious and incredibly cleansing. Do this often enough, and these ladies won’t be just friends, they’ll be your sisters-of-the-heart (soft hearts), and you’ll be theirs.
3. Nurture Your Body
Do you get enough sleep? (Slight pause for laughter to subside…) You’ll never be able to rule the world (or your own small corner of the universe) if you aren’t well-rested. Buy earplugs, get a sleep mask to block out the light, or find a fluffier pillow. If your kids are keeping you awake, refer to step #2 above, call your Soft Hearts, and ask them for advice.
Are you taking care of your health? Mine is a work-in-progress, and some areas are progressing better than others, but I do know this: I feel better when I eat right and move more, even if it’s simply two-stepping to an old country song in the privacy of my own living room. And when I eat right and move more, I sleep better. Well. More soundly? (Whatever…)
Here’s where it gets personal: when was your last physical? Have you had a mammogram? What about a pap smear? Not the most pleasant experiences on the planet, but enduring them sure beats the heck out of dying. If you don’t know which doctor to call, ask your Soft Heart support system to recommend someone.
Nurturing yourself is the best way to give you the break you need – and deserve. Start now!
