Permission to be - A simple practice of compassion

We’re generally taught to treat others well, care about the Earth, and be a good and contributing member of society. When someone sneezes we know we should say “bless you”, and when someone opens the door for us we say “thank you”, and usually receive a “you’re welcome” in return. As a parent, partner and friend, we’re told that the right thing to do is put others before ourselves and that our reward is their happiness.

Now hold on a second….

It’s not that any of this isn’t absolutely true. Giving and being kind is important, there’s no doubt about that. But there needs to be balance. We need to be able to take some time to nurture ourselves. We need to be able to stop the world and consider that if we are unhappy, we need to be made happy. If we are tired, we need to rest. If we are in the blues, we need to clear the clouds away. Whatever the case may be, the act of compassion for yourself is certainly not selfish. It is recognizing that we need to ensure our own spiritual health.

Taking time to go for a walk, read a good book, join a gym, start a book club, or simply not do the dishes when you would really, really take a bubble bath instead is a simple way of reclaiming and recognizing your spirit. Being compassionate and loving yourself enough to give yourself the gift of “yes I can do this for me” may be one of the best practices we can do each day.

"Originally by - Kate Leighton

Tags: relaxation, self

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