One of my mentors and role models, Rebecca Scritchfield just launched a new initiative called the Me Movement-a way to help you stay healthy and sane this holiday season. She designed a pledge to commit to positive self care through the hectic holiday season. Of course, I signed up asap. I printed out the pledge I made for myself and put it on my desk. I have never been someone who makes New Years Resolutions. Every year on New Years Day my family pulls out our gigantic calender and looks at all the things we accomplished in the year, while going through photos. We talk about some of the things we have to look forward to, and with a "love, love, rabbit rabbit" start the new year off right. But although I never feel guilty around January 1st, I know the next couple of months are going to be a bit stressful. Change is in the air, and while that is positive, I know it could get taxing. Finals are coming up, I have a funeral to attend, Thanksgiving here in Boston, Home to Wyoming, oh and a little thing called Graduation and DI applications. These are all periods when I could start stress eating, over/underexercising and not listening to what my body, mind and soul needs. I acknowledge that I am a person-pleaser and can be a perfectionist, but need to remember that I can not accomplish these things if I don't take time for myself.
For my health and wellness, I want to put myself first this holiday season. This year will be different. I am going to take care of myself during this busy (sometimes hectic) time. If that means asking for help, saying “no”, or scheduling “down time,” I will do it. I’m done being overcommitted.
- I pledge to remember how good it feels when I’m taking care of myself. And when I feel good, I am able to take better care of those I love.
- I pledge to keep in mind that social situations are about the companionship, as much as the delicious food and drinks. I want to enjoy foods that look and taste good while respecting my body’s “fullness” and “satisfied” signals. I won’t judge myself if I ate “too much” of the holiday foods that don’t come around that often.
- I pledge to stay in tune with what my body needs, whether that’s food, rest, exercise, or sleep.
My well-being is my priority. The goals below reflect the healthiest ways I know how to meet my own needs.
Goal 1: I will dedicate 20 minutes of every day for “me” time. This can not be in front of a screen-I will use this time to read a book for pleasure, collage, or meditate.
Goal 2: I will get 7-8 hours of sleep every night.
Goal 3: I will incorporate more yoga into my workouts, for balance, flexibility and peace of mind.
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Signature Elizabeth Jarrard Date 11/11/10
What are you inspired by right now? Are the holidays a stressful time for you? Would you consider signing the pledge and putting yourself first this holiday season?
7 comments:
I like your point not to judge yourself for enjoying holiday foods that don't come around too often. It isn't everyday we get to enjoy a thanksgiving feast :)
Hi Jenny! I definitely do not judge anyone for enjoy the foods they love! It's not every day you get to try those special foods, and you should enjoy it in full, instead of feeling guilty and restricting! I hope you have a healthy happy thanksgiving! (and consider signing the pledge!)
Great post, Elizabeth!
It is always so nice to stop by your blog.
I do hope you get some Zumba into your holiday season! I know I plan to! :)
I decided to take up your idea of myself making a "me" resolution...or three. You will have to hold me up to these!
1. I will try to hold myself my ever-present "timeline" of when I need to have things in my life accomplished. I will try to remember, that these things will happen exactly when they are supposed to happen.
2. I will exercise at a moderate rate - not obsessively one day so I can't get myself to do it the next.
3. I will stop obsessively thinking about the future and focus on what I am doing right then and there.
This is great, I wish more of society would do this! I'm personally never stressed by the holidays, but I hear it sooooo often.
I love this movement! I have posted it on my blog! Thanks my friend!
You're fantastic!
I mentioned the Me Movement this morning with personal training client. She loved it!
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