Self-care has become a buzzword lately. It seems like everyone is recommending taking a hot bath, going on a vacation, or journaling to feel better. But have you ever done all those things and still not felt any better? It's time we start talking about the reality of self-care.
Personally, I used to struggle with self-care too. I would always put it off until I was completely burnt out and overwhelmed by life. And even when I did try to practice self-care, I often felt ashamed or guilty for taking time away from my responsibilities or wondered why I couldn't seem to get my act together.
But then, I had a realization. Self-care isn't just a one-time event or a treat for when things get tough. It's about slowing down, being present with ourselves, and practicing gratitude for even the smallest things in life. It's about training our minds in small doses so that we're better equipped to handle the big things when they come.
Using all-natural soap as a tool for self-care is a fantastic way to start cultivating a deeper sense of gratitude for the small things. Here are some suggestions on how to make the most of it.
- First, set an intention. When you unpack a fresh bar of soap, ask yourself what reminder you need at that moment. It can be anything from "I am a good mom, even when I don't feel like it" to "My body is good, even if I don't love everything about it." Make it personal and meaningful to you.
- Next, pay attention and practice presence. Use your senses to ground yourself and bring you to the present moment. Notice what you see, how the soap feels in your hands, and what it smells like.
- Finally, practice gratitude. It can be easy to get caught up in life's struggles, but taking time to appreciate the small things can make a big difference. If you struggle with body image, this is an excellent time to practice gratitude for your body and the amazing things it has done for you.
Through this simple act of using all-natural soap, you can start training your brain to look for the good all around you and live a more fulfilling life. So the next time you use soap, remember that it's not just about getting clean – it's about taking care of yourself in a meaningful way.