With November here, I find myself hoping this month brings each of us peace, hope, and a fresh sense of possibility. In a world filled with challenges, may this season feel like a warm embrace—a reminder of the beauty in slowing down, taking a breath, and nurturing the parts of ourselves that need a little extra love and care.
The theme of rest and reflection has been especially close to my heart lately. After a horse-riding accident in March, I had to pause and focus on healing. This journey back has been humbling and enlightening, filled with moments of excitement, nervousness, and even vulnerability. Recovery has taught me that self-love often means honouring rest, practicing patience, and giving both body and spirit the time they need to mend.
Starting again feels both thrilling and daunting. Growth often invites us into the unknown, encouraging us to trust the journey. My books, Just for today…I will love myself and Just for today…I will be brave, have been grounding guides throughout this time. I return to these affirmations daily, finding strength in their gentle reminders of resilience and courage.
As I move forward, I want to share a few tools and practices that have supported me—and I hope they bring comfort and encouragement to you as well. Whether you’re recovering, beginning anew, or simply seeking moments of self-love, these practices can help you reconnect with yourself and create space for healing.
Tips & Tools for Slowing Down and Nurturing Yourself
1. Create a Daily Pause
Set aside a few minutes each day, even if it’s just five, to sit quietly with yourself. Close your eyes, focus on your breath, and allow any tension to release. This small daily pause can help you reconnect with where you are, both physically and emotionally.
2. Journal Your Thoughts and Feelings
Writing can be a powerful way to process emotions and reflect on your journey. Try setting aside time each week to jot down your thoughts, fears, hopes, and small victories. Let the page hold whatever you’re feeling, without judgment. Over time, you may notice patterns or insights that help you grow.
3. Set Gentle Intentions
Instead of setting big goals, try focusing on gentle intentions. What small acts of self-care or self-love can you commit to today? These could be as simple as taking a walk, reading a book, or cooking a nourishing meal. Small, intentional steps can create a nurturing rhythm that supports healing.
4. Practice Self-Compassion
When setbacks happen or progress feels slow, try speaking to yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend. Remind yourself that healing is a journey, not a race. Allow yourself to feel proud of the small steps, even if they seem insignificant.
5. Connect with Supportive Resources
Surrounding yourself with supportive resources, whether books, affirmations, or a community, can make a big difference. My books, ust for today…I will love myself and Just for today…I will be brave, have been my own steady companions through this time. Find resources that resonate with you and lean on them when you need extra support.
6. Engage in Mindful Movement
Movement, when done mindfully, can be a wonderful way to reconnect with your body. This could be gentle stretching, a walk in nature, or simply breathing deeply and letting your body unwind. Mindful movement helps release tension and remind you of the strength within.
This period of pause and reflection has deepened my connection to these messages of self-love, bravery, and resilience. As I continue moving forward, I hope to share more gentle reminders and affirmations that support our growth, even after life’s setbacks.
If you’re navigating your own journey of healing or renewal, know you’re not alone. Let’s step forward together, with a little more compassion, a touch of courage, and a commitment to caring for ourselves along the way.
For regular inspiration, affirmations, and support, join me on Instagram and Facebook. Together, we’ll walk this path of self-care, resilience, and self-love.
With warmth and gratitude,
Maria x
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