Ok, so summer vacation just started, and I must say the end of this past school year was rough. Just when you thought it was under control, BAM, something else came up, or I got COVID – that was fun for the last two weeks of the school year. A perfect cherry on top of a trash sundae for sure. I know I am not alone in this feeling. I keep seeing
#selfcaresummer trending on social media as more people begin to recognize that self-care is the most essential thing in the world. Now we know that summer is not the only time we prioritize our needs, but right now feels like a good time to plant some seeds for the future.
Recovering from this school year feels different than past years. I can feel my nervous system is heightened, “relaxing” feels like a chore, and the to-do list I am facing feels insurmountable. And you know what – that’s ok.
I find myself vibing extra hard to Lizzo’s new jam, “About Damn Time.” The following lyrics seem to capture exactly how I am feeling…
“Oh, I’ve been so down and under pressure
I’m way too fine to be this stressed, yeah
Oh, I’m not the girl I was or used to be
Uh, b***h, I might be better
Turn up the music, turn down the lights
I got a feelin’ I’m gon’ be alright
Okay (okay), alright
It’s about damn time (time)
Turn up the music, let’s celebrate (alright)
I got a feelin’ I’m gon’ be okay
Okay (okay), alright
It’s about damn time”
To do the necessary healing and self-care work this summer, I am setting my intentions and affirmations loud and clear. I invite you to think about your summer, and how you can make yourself a priority. I will refer back to this list as needed. I may print it out or save it as the background on my phone too. Notice the intentions and affirmations are written in the present tense. This helps to calibrate my body to the present moment. This is me now. Not a future version of myself.
Here are my intentions/affirmations for the summer to kick off the summer of self-care…
I rest.
I say no.
If something does not get done, I am ok with that.
I do not check my work email during my time off.
I spend time with people who make me feel good, support me, believe in me, and inspire me.
I cancel plans if I change my mind.
I move my body in ways that feel good.
I am allowing myself to dream.
I am reconnecting with my why and my soul’s true purpose.
I seek experiences that fill my cup and inspire me.
I am taking my time. I know everything will get done.
I am honoring my body, mind, and spirit.
What else would you add to this list? What resonates with you? How are you prioritizing your needs this summer?
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Best,
Dr. MC