Gentleness & Tenderness

One of my favorite views from Spirit Fire Meditative Retreat Center in Leyden, MA

I was blessed with the opportunity to spend 5ish days last weekend with an amazing group of soulful, heart-centered people in the foothills of beautiful Massachusetts, which left me feeling nourished, nurtured, grounded, and loved up.  Being in that environment for a few days, where the trees were lush, the flowers were blooming, and the food was delectable, allowed the time for the boundaries and walls (put up in order to survive city streets and subway cars) to fall away as I was invited to turn inward during meditation and energy work.

Bridge of Flowers, Shelburne Falls, MA

What I found was that my heart needed a little attention and work.  A little lovin'.  A little huggin'.  A little cradling comfort.

Image from Journey of Love by visionary artist Rassouli

So many of us are caregivers and hard workers.  In a world that is so faced paced and go, go, go, push, push, push, achieve, succeed…….. I know I forget to honor my heart need.

And it felt so relieving and comforting to be granted permission to be gentle and tender with myself.  I realize I don't need permission from anyone to love myself, but being reminded was something I needed in this growing moment.  A reminder that it's okay to rest when I feel tired.  To do things that fill me with joy and pleasure, like watch the sunset, buy fresh flowers, or call a dear friend.  To ask myself, is this kind?  Is this gentle?  

And the same is true for you.  In case you need to be reassured that it's not selfish of you, I invite you to be kind and loving to yourself.

Point to ponder: (in your journal if you feel so inspired!) what types of things bring you joy?  What is one simple thing you can do TODAY that would show kindness to yourself?  Maybe it's taking a break to read a few pages of your favorite pleasure-reading book…or taking a hot bubble bath…or savoring a small piece of decadent chocolate totally guilt-free….. 
You know you best…. do you! 

One of my pleasures: having burgers for lunch with my brother!