Until the Cup is Full
Often, the process of taking care of oneself is viewed as selfish and egocentric. The mother that takes the morning off to get a pedicure is vain. The grandmother who cannot take her grandchildren for the day because she is busy hiking is self absorbed. The woman who gives herself one massage per month is perceived to be spending too much time and money on herself. I am here to fight that image, to empower women everywhere to do whatever it is that is necessary for them to feel positive, strong and taken care of; for only when we are ourselves full, can we give to others with our overflow.
This is especially important for women who find themselves in the struggle to have a child. These women will do ANYTHING if you say it will help. They have tried wearing orange every day for a week, drinking certain teas and herbs three times a day even if they hate it. They have woken up at 2am to be sure that their shots are done on time and on top of that have learned to give themselves shots. If the end result is a baby, the journey is not important.
It is this group of women to whom I would like to reach out the most. Now, right now, is the best time to start taking care of YOU. This does not mean only eating steamed veggies and rice for 2 months (although it might mean that for some people). This means doing you. What do you like? Where do you feel the best? What activities fill your time in such a way that you don’t even notice it is passing? When was the last time you laughed from way deep down in your gut? For one, this is necessary because studies have shown that woman with depression are 50% less likely to get pregnant following IVF/ICSI/IUI attempts. For two, this is necessary because as is so beautifully put by my teacher, Saraswati Tiberi, you must “prepare the palace” (see www.preparethepalace.com.blogspot and www.thefertilesoul.com for more). Preparing the palace includes preparing the uterus which can be done through deep breathing, yoga, acupuncture, herbs, etc. but it also includes preparing the palace that is your body, mind and soul. Your mind and soul can be ready… but body not so much. Your body and mind can be ready, but soul.. still catching up. Your soul and body can be ready, but you cannot overcome the thoughts of how it will all work out, your mind isn’t quite on the same level.
Preparing the palace = taking care of you. Taking care of you = whatever you want it to be. Creative endeavors, yoga retreats, hypnosis, massages, pedicures, shopping, acupuncture, herbs, painting, coloring, drawing, playing music, gardening, breathing, sitting, being aware, reading, swimming, running, biking, walking, rock climbing, blogging, writing, talking, trying new dishes; these are all examples by which one can take care of themselves. I urge all women that wish for a child (who seems not in a rush to get here!) to switch focus from when the next dr’s appointment is to: what do I want today? What will make me feel good right now, in this moment?
I will not tell you that it is easy, but it is only a decision away. Make a decision. Take Care of You.
Lots of Love,
Caity
September 05 2009 03:32 pm | Articles