How to Nourish Yourself

“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.
​―Maya Angelou

Sometimes it’s easier to give than to ask for help. If you’re constantly in giving mode, you may not pause to think about what you need. But, if you neglect to care for yourself, you may quickly find yourself on the road to burnout. And that’s no good for anybody!
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Here are five ways to nourish and replenish yourself when you’ve given what seems like more than you possibly can give.

1. Get back to basics. Some of the most important aspects of caring for yourself are often the first to get when you get overwhelmed or busy. Sleep, proper nutrition, breath, movement, and water.  A good night’s sleep can do wonders for a weary body or mind. Eat three meals a day. Get a little exercise if possible. Remember that the body needs breath and water to function at full capacity. The simple act of taking a few deep breaths and drinking a glass of water can provide some needed energy and replenishment.

Photo used with permission courtesy of Unsplash.com

2. Ask for help. What can you get off of your plate today that someone else can support? Most people want to be helpful but may not know exactly what to do, so be specific. If you’re in a position to delegate, then do it! If not, cash in on a favor, or offer to buy a colleague a cup of coffee if they help proofread that report. At home, ask your partner to stop at the grocery or make dinner. ​

3. Take a break. This might just be as simple as taking a five minute mental break. Or, maybe you need a vacation! This goes back to asking for what you need and of course, being able to recognize what you need. In order to reveal what you need the most, pause to listen to yourself and your body.

4. Do something you love to do. Take a hike. Grab a cup of coffee with a friend. Read a book, or go dancing. Spending time doing what you truly love will help reignite your motivation to keep going. ​

Photo used with permission courtesy of Unsplash.com

5. Let it go. When all else fails, don’t be afraid to let something go if you need to. Is this a life or death situation? If not, sure, you may let someone down, but sometimes your well being has to come first. Let it go and move on. ​

Author

Jannan Poppen, Giving Coordinator