Written by: Kristen Donia

Close your eyes.

What do you need right now? A hug? A conversation with a friend? A good night’s rest?

Our needs vary day to day. It can be difficult to pinpoint what exactly we need especially when we’re tired, stressed, or overwhelmed – which many of us are.

Below you’ll find body positive recipe ideas for this fall and winter. Screenshot them. Come back to them when you need a little something more, yet you’re not sure what it is.

The Body Positive Moment

Stand in front of a mirror soon after waking in the morning wearing your pajamas. Make note of how you feel.

Now, on the same day (or another) stand in front of the mirror when you’re about to leave the house wearing your favorite outfit.

What is different? What feels the same? Compare the two feelings.

The Self-Care Ritual

Close your eyes.

Ask yourself – how do you feel? Listen. Breathe. If you don’t hear anything, that’s okay, keep breathing. Ask yourself again. Listen. Then ask – what do you need right now? Listen for what comes up. Perhaps it’s a bath, or maybe you need a good cry. Maybe it’s a nourishing meal or a nap. Keep asking, keep listening. The more you do, the more your body and heart will start talking to you, telling you what they need in that moment to come back to center.

Community Hugs

Think of someone you trust. A person who truly sees you and wants the best for you. Who is it? When was the last time you spoke? Are you feeling the call to connect with someone? Do you need to vent or work something out and doing it on paper/electronically isn’t working? Reach out to your trusted person. Pick a date and time to meet up and practice “Active Listening” for one another. Thank each other for holding space for you in that moment.

Reflection: How did you feel when you parted ways? Did you feel lighter? Clearer? Think on this and if it was a positive shift, remind yourself that this is a tool in your toolbox the next time you need support from your community.

There are countless ways to support yourself each day. Try these out and change and adjust them to your needs in the moment. Do you have any go-to self-care rituals? Leave them below!

************************************************************************************************************

Kristen Donia is a freelance writer living in a tiny house she built in sunny Southern Oregon. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and has dedicated her life to studying and writing about empathy, vulnerability and enriching the human experience.