Tip 39 for #40DaysOfSelfCare is NOURISH. We spend our first 9 months being nourished in a watery womb, so it’s no wonder water is so nurturing when the body is weary and the soul feels thirsty.
I’ve just returned from an evening ocean swim with a dear friend. The sea was a strong dance partner, moving me to the rhythms of high tides under the influence of an almost full moon. Seagulls stood sentry on the shore while I waltzed on waves. I felt both protected and embraced by Mother Nature. Tonight I really needed to be nurtured in a sea of love.
Recently I’ve made major decisions relating to my work and a few relationships involving people who have been in my life for years. These significant life changes have required letting go of old patterns and some heart’s desires. And while I know space for new adventures is being created during this reconstruction, my body and mind feel a bit weary and delicate.
At moments like this, the perfect self-care remedy is to nourish the heart. By nourishing the heart, the body is nourished. Nourish the heart, flourish the life.
Both swimming in the ocean and sitting on the sandy threshold of her shores nourishes my heart.
The ocean is a treasure cove of promise and magic that always fills my heart with gratitude, peace, and joy. Her warm buoyant waters beckon me to let go and float in allowance. Her waves remind me there is a perfect rhythm and timing to life’s changes.
The kelp and seaweed whisper how the secret to growth and expansion is in becoming uprooted from the known and tossed into the unknown. And the occasional passing seal is an invitation to smile and have fun, because worrying about any hidden dangers is an instant groove buster.
Watching the waves, I realize I am watching the ocean breathe. The ebbs of her exhales and tides of her inhales balance her body (of water). Same goes with my breath; it balances my body and mind. Any fear or anxiety about my recent life changes are transformed, as I sit with the thoughts and watch the breath. Fears and anxieties ebb from the mind; trust and patience flow in.
My body and mind relax when I surrender to the rhythm of the breath...the rhythm of the ocean...the rhythm of the Universe. In this state of allowance, I see two truths about navigating change. First, trust my heart, my north star. Second, calm serenity always exists amid change.
Calm serenity is the pause between the wave coming ashore and returning to sea. It’s the pause between the inhalation and the exhalation. In any life change, I only need to become aware of that pause and I merge with calm serenity.
As you move through any life changes, remember, it’s in the pause, between the waves or the breaths, that divine life is embracing you. You are being cared for and nourished with great devotion and affection.
BIG hugs…
Kellen
Ps. The sea treasures in the photo are from a Hendry’s Beach walk last summer with my old dog Duke. The little dog sits on my writing desk, reminding me how when I devote myself to self-care and nourish my heart, the Universe always replies with magic and abundance.
Today’s Self-Care Adventure: Connect with the water element today. Swim in an ocean, lake, river, or pool. Or savor a warm bath infused with lavender salts. To really create a fuss and holler, run through sprinklers or have a water hose duel with a friend.