Nurturing is an active process. It involves being both caring and protective. This requires us to be aware and vigilant, paying attention to the condition of our own system. Yesterday we began step two, “watch the weather conditions,” which is a way of actively checking in to see if we need to replenish ourselves. We closed with the idea that you can control the conditions of your thoughts. Today we’ll expand our observation to include seeing we can influence our own weather conditions.
We’ve all created some stormy weather for ourselves – negative or fear-filled thoughts, worries that keep up us at night, or ignoring aches and pains. When this happens over time, then we layer in judgment (why am I always feeling like this, I hate this) or negative expectations (I know I’m not going to sleep) which makes things worse.
Once we start noticing the kinds of thoughts and behaviors that have been going in to our system, we can see how they impact our current conditions, for better or worse. When we have stormy thoughts, we need ways to calm the storm. One of my favorites is simply remembering to breathe slowly and deeply. But for it to work, I need to get out of self-judgment. A little gentle forgiveness calms the storm.
Thank you, for these refreshing and rejuvenating reminders to stay calm, be centered, and function from a mindful place. After only a few days, I have started looking forward to your post each day and the opportunity to “reset” my day with you.
Kind regards,
Joan
Joan, thank you so much for your comment – I love and appreciate your support! My favorite way to end the day is to spend the last few minutes before I go to sleep thinking nice, kind thoughts. I’ll think of yours tonight! Big hugs, Erika