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How Do You Keep Yourself Filled Up?

Last week I discussed the importance of filling your child’s attention “cup” with positive attention, before she/he defaults to negative attention.  However, in order to have energy to give to your children you need to have topped up yourself.  What are the best ways to do this?  Of course, self-care varies for each individual but here are some suggestions to consider:

• Begin your morning with a short meditation – start with sitting up in bed (before everyone else is awake!) and just focus on your breath for five minutes – gradually increase the time as it becomes more of a habit.  As thoughts come, just let them go and re-focus on your breath. Some people prefer a more directed mediation where on focuses on some words such as these which I have taken from the Yoga Journal:   “May I be filled with loving-kindness; May I be peaceful; May I be healthy; May I be happy.”  (Repeat several times).  Finish by setting an intention for the day.  For more information on incorporating Mindfulness and Meditation into your life, read my blog on Practicing Mindfulness.  Research has proven that meditation grows the calming areas of your brain!

• Wake up early enough in order that you have time to get yourself ready, set the breakfast table, and create a calm atmosphere in the home

• Get enough sleep!  Adults need, on average, 8.25 hrs. of sleep per night – everyone can be more patient and energetic with enough sleep

• Eat well and exercise!  (For women, get inspired by reading the book Younger Next Year – “contains all the tools to achieve longer, sexier and more passionate lives”) Try yoga!

• Reduce your stress!  Pare down the social calendar, only take on what you can manage

• Do something to nurture your spirit – for some this may involve attending church, or reading spiritual books, for others this means going for a walk and connecting with nature

• When all else fails, take deep breaths! BREATHE – your child is not trying to push all your buttons – your child is expressing a need to connect.  Give yourself a few minutes of quiet time.  Shift the energy – give your child a hug, read a story together, hear their feelings, what is your child trying to communicate through this behaviour?

• Unplug!  Texting and talking does not equal positive attention!  Computers/TV and talking does not fill up a child!  Children need to know that you are giving them your undivided attention for it to really fill them up

• Repair the Relationship if you and your child have an argument

• Practice gratitude – research has proven that expressing thankfulness for what one has, positively effects one’s mood

• Spend time doing what you love – connect with your passion – use your creativity

• Connect with friends and other parents – share stories

Have a wonderful week, filling yourself up!

Warmly,

My 6 Top Apps for Creating More Calm for You and Your Children!