Remember when we rolled into 2024 telling ourselves that this year would be different? That we were going to eliminate the stress and anxiety running us down and burning us out? That we were going to set boundaries, and be positive, and take better care of ourselves? Yeah, remember that?? After the challenges of the past couple of years, 2024 was supposed to be about progress and moving forward – even the astrological signs seemed promising.
I don’t know about you but unexpected health challenges, frustrating relationships, and every day and overbearing entitlement seem to be my themes so far for this year. Add to that an election year and the hate mongering associated with politics, what seems like a countless number of eclipses (which really does change the energy around us), and oh yeah, Pluto seems to be in the microwave, I mean in Capricorn….we are just not seeing the forward momentum that we are absolutely craving and had our sights set on. Let me tell you. I AM NOT HERE FOR IT.
According to my hippy woo resources (lol), 2024 was expected to be a year of 2 steps forward, 1 stumble back. This is causing us even more frustration as we feel like we are making progress but can’t quite get to the breakthrough. So. Now what? How do we continue to work towards decreasing stress, finding happiness, and cultivating joy?
This is where I say “hold my beer, I’ve got this!” 😊 The only way to navigate the rest of this year with any semblance of serenity is through self-care and mindfulness.
Mindfulness
This is about being present in the current moment. Being reflective, kind, and gracious. To yourself and others. It is about moving out of autopilot and letting life happen to you and creating ownership for better outcomes. Here are a couple of small tangibles to incorporate into your day in order to cultivate awareness:
Take a deep breath. When you feel the stress, anxiety, or overwhelm setting in, take a few deep breaths. Inhale through your nose. Hold it for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth.
Pay attention to sensations. Maybe your morning coffee smells delicious, the sun feels amazing on your face, or the sounds of nature are calming, take a moment to stop and enjoy. Allow it to be an experience.
Practice gratitude. I know that I sound like a broken record, but you need to be reminded. Expressing gratitude, even if it is internally, just to yourself, it will change your outlook. When you start expressing gratitude to others it is a game changer. In the best way!
Self-Care
Please allow me scream this at you: SELF-CARE IS NOT SELFISH. It is 100% essential for your well-being, for your efficiency, for your productivity, for your happiness, and the happiness of everyone in your life!
I believe that there are 6 pillars of self-care:
The Foundation – It all starts with the physical body. How are you using sleep, nutrition, movement, and overall health to create a more vibrant you?
Emotional Intelligence – A deeper understanding of who you are and how you navigate the world around you will bolster your resilience and face life’s challenges.
Social Well-Being – Cultivating meaningful connections and fostering a supportive network will uplift you and help you on this journey.
Lifestyle Harmony – Creating a life that aligns with your values and promotes balance will improve your satisfaction in every facet of your life.
Creative Expression – Tap into your creativity for a powerful tool for not only stress release but also self-discovery and joy.
Spiritual Connection – Nourish your soul with practices that resonate with your beliefs, bringing you a sense of purpose and inner peace.
This is my jam! I have a Self-Care PowerPack available for only $44. It includes a series of videos, a workbook, a custom meditation, and a digital affirmation poster. I will even include a 15 minute strategy call! Because I know that it is time for you. You can find the Self-Care PowerPack here: https://www.drtanyab.com/ppselfcare.
Please remember, this is not a luxury. This is a necessity for navigating and overcoming the challenges that 2024 has presented to us. Leaning into these strategies will help you handle whatever is being thrown your way with resilience, focus, and peace.
You got this. I’m here for you!
The pay attention to sensations hit me. Especially “the sun feels amazing on your face” for today. May was stressful, but mowing a couple acres of lawn and planting tomatoes with the sun beaming down on me helped to ground me. I needed it. Thank you 🙏🏻