Unlock Your Best Self with Self Care
Friends. Community. Self Care.
In today’s fast-paced and digital world, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected.
But humans are social creatures, and we need community, friends, and meaningful activities to thrive. Last night, I did just that – I met with friends from three different states, and together, we made immune supporting Elderberry Syrup. We used technology – but only to provide the video call that brought us together. We met for community, friendship, and self care.
After the rush of the summer months, we are now entering the “dark days”; we have less sunlight, and cold and flu season is starting. My friends and I decided to make something together to support our physical selves – and we did it together to support our mental wellness. It was a wonderful evening with much laughter, a little chopping up of ingredients, time spent simmering the amazing smelling simmering herbal infusion, and even a guided meditation. (See my blog post on how to make Immune Boosting Elderberry Syrup at home.) It really is important to take time for yourself each day to do things that you enjoy and that make you feel good – and I felt blessed to have the technology to accomplish that with my friends last night. Community and self care can help us all with:
Improved Mental and Physical Health
Studies have shown that doing things with your hands can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also improve your cognitive function and memory. And because it’s a physical activity, it can also benefit your cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility.
A Sense of Belonging and Purpose
When you’re part of a community of people who are passionate about the same things as you, you feel a sense of belonging and purpose. This can be especially important if you’re feeling lost or isolated.
Stronger Relationships
Doing things with your hands with friends is a great way to bond and strengthen your relationships. It’s also a fun and rewarding way to spend time together.
Increased Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills
Last minute, I decided to add turmeric (’cause I LOVE it!) to my Elderberry Syrup. One friend had some on hand, so she did, too. When you’re working with your hands, you’re constantly having to come up with new ideas and solve problems. This can help to boost your creativity and problem-solving skills.
A Sense of Accomplishment
When you finish a project that you’ve been working on, it gives you a great sense of accomplishment. This can help to boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. In my case, I also have some immune supporting syrup to help me through these dark days.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your mental and physical health, connect with your community, and find a sense of belonging and purpose, consider doing something with your hands. There are many different activities to choose from, such as gardening, herbalism, painting, knitting, and cooking.
Here are a few ideas for getting started:
- Join a local community garden or makerspace.
- Take a class at a local community college or adult education center.
- Start your own DIY project at home (with or without your friends!).
- Volunteer your time to a local organization that does work that you’re passionate about.
No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to reap the benefits of doing things with your hands, friends, and community. This morning, I woke with a renewed sense of purpose and strength. I am feeling prepared for cold and flu season, and I had a great night with friends that I haven’t seen in person in quite a long time.
When you combine self care and community, you have the recipe for unlocking your best self.
Self care gives you the foundation you need to thrive.
Community provides you with support and encouragement.
Friends give you people to share your journey with.
And doing things with your hands allows you to express yourself creatively and learn new skills.
Together, I realize, these elements can help you to become more confident, fulfilled, and resilient. So what are you waiting for? Start taking care of yourself, getting involved in your community, and finding ways to express yourself creatively. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
Here is a Call to Action, Goddesses:
How will YOU unlock your best self today?
