You cannot get tired of caring for yourself.

Many of us get up each morning in survival mode. We get up and go through the motions. We might have a bath or shower or cup of coffee and then automatically sit on the sofa to watch " the news!" Next, we dress up ready for work. This is where we might give ourselves some attention.  

The intention behind our self-attention in the morning might be due to how much we care about how we look to others. We would not care less how we looked behind closed doors and alone maybe. That is why we might go to bed naked.

We might do make-up and wear lovely shirts and suits to "look good!"

The point though, the important point, is to get up and give ourselves intentional top to toe attention instead of going through the motions and wanting to look good for the world.

Attention to ourselves from the time we wake up in the morning, to the time we get back to bed at night.

To acknowledge the child in us foremost.

To shepherd and care for the child in us and keep him or her safe.

To look good to us and on the inside.

To feel good foremost.

Wake up to yourself

When you wake up in the morning, before you touch, do anything or talk to anyone, address the child in you. You are acknowledging your existence.

Before you start with any problems, say good morning to yourself with a hug. You are here.

Take 5 deep breaths - you are alive.

Feel gratitude as is or in prayer. Start inwards and go outwards, listing your life, body, health, food , water, earth, that keeps you going, clothes, shelter, fuel, job, your partner, family, friends, and others who keep you going.

Give yourself quality time in meditation 5 to 20 minutes. You do not need to be good at it.

Repeat affirmations in front of the mirror while looking at and hugging yourself. Tapping is also helpful.

Throughout the day

Get out in the day and segment intend.Before each task, set an intention.

Practice mindfulness throughout the day. Mind your step.

Mind the gap.

Mind your thoughts.

Mind your driving.

Mind your words.

Mind your actions.

Boundaries on the inside. Practice self-control.

Feel....that is what it means to be human. Notice beauty and kindness and breathe it all in.

SIFTSEM to regulate emotions.To make decisions in your best interest. Journal to track your progress.

Do not compare yourself to anyone. Rather, learn how others achieve a state of peacefulness. That is the greatest achievement.

End of the day

When you get back home, welcome yourself back home and check in with yourself. "How has your day been?"

Do you need a hug, reassurance, a gift? Give that to yourself. Then hug a partner, a child or a pet or stuffed toy.

Whatever has happened today, food, a glass of wine, substances are not the answer. Sit with your emotions and parent yourself. Drink water. Go for a walk, run or lift weights in the gym.

Before you go to bed, reflect on your day. What can you do better next time?

What did you do well today?

Feel gratefulness for making it through the day.

Praise yourself. Whatever the situation, you have lived through the day.

Close your eyes and count backwards from 100 to 0.

Breathe in and out once again. You are still here. Hug yourself good night.

Remember to set an intention for tomorrow. You are going to repeat.

Have a beautiful day today! It is going to be a wonderful day!