Hello ,

There’s one person in your world who is more important than anyone else but who most often gets neglected.

That's YOU!

It’s Valentine’s Day this weekend.

The shops have been full of cards, bunches of red roses and all thinks pink, red and romantic for weeks.  Restaurants have put the champagne (or fizzy stuff) on ice and put out the hearts, flowers and pink themed menus.

Whether or not you enjoy the whole hearts and flowers or you see it all as just a big commercial opportunity or you're single and really could do without all the forced romance (or is that just me?).

Whatever your personal circumstances, we could all benefit from treating ourselves a little better.  So whether you the one that's always looking after others, make sure you look after yourself too:

Take time out.  Get away from your usual environment every now and then.  Go away for the weekend or even a day – do something different or something you enjoy and do it just for you - with or without your loved one.

Treat yourself.   Get pampered or do something as a special treat.  Book a relaxing massage, savour a glass of your favourite wine, spend a whole day with your best mate.  Whatever you promise yourself but never quite find time for.

Love your body.   It’s the only one you’ve got, so treat it well and it will look after you.  We come in all shapes and sizes, there's no such thing as perfection (although many people seem to chase the air-brushed images presented on TV and in magazines).  Eat a healthy, sensible diet.  Give your body what it needs to be fit, healthy and strong.  Use a bit of common sense about what’s good and bad for you - everything in moderation (except chocolate).

Get Active.  It’s a great way to get the endorphins going and lifts your mood, particularly if you spend much of your day indoors, sitting at a desk.  The rhythm of exercise and breathing gives you time to think.  At this time of year fresh air, exercise and sunshine (when you can) is a great mood enhancer. 

Write it down.   Journalling is a great way to get your thoughts and feelings out on paper.  Good ones, bad ones, great ideas, little seeds of an idea, niggling thoughts or problems.  Putting them on paper allows you to make sense of them. Whether you share them or not is up to you.

Stay positive.   You can chose to see the negative in your everyday situation or you can chose to see the positive.  Sometimes harder than others to stay positive but you have a lot to be grateful for.

Volunteer.   If you want to feel grateful, do something for someone else.  Put your skills, energy and enthusiasm into helping someone less fortunate than you or who could benefit from your knowledge or just needs your time.

Spend time with people you care about.   Your partner, friends and family know you best and will be supportive and there for you whatever happens in your life.  Let them know how much they mean to you every day, not just this weekend.

Relaxation – learn to relax.   We spend so much time on the go, rushing from one place to another, trying to cram everything in that we rarely take time to relax, unwind and just switch off.  Gentle relaxation and exercise like yoga, meditation or just simple breathing techniques - a few minutes each day will quieten a busy mind.

So whatever your relationship status this weekend (and any other for that matter), look after yourself and enjoy it.

Clare

P.S. Struggling to find time for yourself? Get in touch and book time for a chat.