At this time of year our thoughts go to the traditions of hearts, roses, chocolates and a candlelit meal. Whilst this is a lovely tradition for those wanting to celebrate romance, there are other ways of looking at bringing greater love into our lives and the lives of others.
Kindness and compassion are one of the most powerful tools any of us have in our toolbox right now. Many of us are largely housebound so naturally we're not living our most enjoyable lives but finding time to be kind to ourselves and others can make such a difference.
Top ten tips to be kind to yourself
Try not to compare yourself with others, we're all getting through these strange times in our own way.
Set yourself small, achievable goals.
Write down three things that you're grateful for at the end of each day.
Cook yourself a tasty nourishing meal.
Light a scented candle to help you to unwind in the evening.
Listen to a favourite album.
Do a few simple stretching exercises each day.
Prioritise your sleep.
Spend a few minutes each day in nature.
Reread a favourite novel.
Top ten tips to help others.
1. Share a favourite recipe with someone who you know enjoys cooking.
2. Pass on jigsaws or board games to others to help them have some enjoyable focus during these dark evenings.
3. Bake a cake or biscuits and deliver them to someone who is struggling at the moment.
4. Encourage someone who is feeling down, give them time to talk and encourage them to take a small step forward.
5. Check in on a neighbour or friend and see if they need anything. You can do this by phone, or in person, remembering to maintain a distance.
6. Reconnect more deeply with friends or relatives who have moved away. Facetime, email or a letter could all be ways of connecting.
7. Remember to say thank you to everyone who supports you. A text message saying thank you for being a good friend can be so powerful to the sender and the recipient.
8. Think of someone who has had a positive impact on your life, send them a card to say thank you.
9. Sign up as a volunteer. Although there are restrictions, many charities are looking for volunteers to help with shopping etc. for the vulnerable in society.
10. Simply say “I’m sorry” when you’re wrong.
The Loving Kindness Meditation below is a lovely way of focusing on being kind to ourselves and others. The words in the meditation start
May I be happy
May I be healthy
May I have the power to forgive and accept
May I live in peace.
I'm sure these are hopes we all have for ourselves and others. Helping others is empowering and makes us feel better.
So, how can you show love and kindness to yourself and others today?
For me, baking for my friends, volunteering for Age UK and at the vaccination centres are steps that I’m aiming to give more time and priority to.
Spreading loving kindness has always been a way to make positive change for us all but now it is even more important. This current and strange COVID-19 situation will end. And when it does, you'll be proud you made the effort to bring greater kindness and happiness into your life and the lives of others.
If you are struggling and would like more support then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I offer a variety of 6 week well-being programmes such as “Overcoming Stress and Anxiety” and “Building Strong Foundations for Health”. Contact me at www.balancedhorizons.co.uk or email suzanne@balancedhorizons.co.uk
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