Being Nice To Yourself
We’ve been so acclimated to the way society has shown the many times’ someone talks down on themselves, be it as small as an “I’m so stupid, I should’ve known this” or “She has such a beautiful body, I wish my body looked like that.” It brings negative energy into your mind and heart, and it frankly doesn’t help you in the journey to becoming your authentic self. Speaking kind words to and about yourself should be viewed more as an everyday practice, not as a conceded act.
Practice Mindfulness
A great way to define mindfulness is this: “Mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment, through a gentle, nurturing lens.” I love this quote because mindfulness isn’t just breathing exercises, but a lifestyle change to view life, your life, through a nurtured and loved lens. Some days I lean on my mindfulness practices to get me through something tough, and other days, I practice mindfulness just to feel at peace. There isn’t only one way of practicing; you end up using it every day for a happier life. Some examples of my practices are writing, journaling, doing photography, cuddling/playing with my cats, and speaking with my loved ones.
Moving Your Body
Lately, I like to move my body to slower exercises. Ones that don’t require going from point A to point B in a matter of time. Yoga has helped me regain strength, flexibility, elegance, and confidence in myself. Having these traits helps me mentally on my journey to become more wholehearted and authentic.
Relaxing Your Mind & Meditate
Something most people don’t know about me is that I can be really paranoid, really easily. This stems from an unbalance in my childhood memories, and trauma can make someone continuously look out for their well being. So having gracefully bowed to meditation took some mental preparedness and willingness to let go. These traits allowed my mental health to heal and blossom. Now when I feel overwhelmed or anxiety-ridden, I bring myself down by closing my eyes, turning off my brain, and practicing simple breathing exercises to let go.
I hope this article finds you well, and perhaps you may have learned something small from the way I live my life. If there are any ways you practice being the best and authentic you, please share below in the comments, I would love to hear! xoxo
I love all these ideas, Ashley.
Thank you, Debbie! I believe it's always best to treat yourself with the utmost love and care 🙂
Great photos!!! These turned out really well.
Thank you for sharing this! It's something everyone needs to hear! So glad you continuously wlrking on yourself 🙂