However You Define Your Spirit, It Needs Love Too!
I LOVE paddleboarding ( a term which here means, “Lazily laying on my paddleboard in the sea)
We’ve got spirit, yes we do
(I got jokes)
Listen, if you’ve heard Sarah and I on our podcast, you’ll have heard me talk about how I don’t vibe with the term “spiritual". However, I do recognize that we’ve all got a vibe, a life force, chi, an energy, a certain je ne sais quoi (if you will), and a lot of people refer to that as their spirit. I’m cool with that. However you want to label it, it needs love, healing and nurturing too.
Understanding Your Spirit:
Picture your spirit as the radiant essence that makes you uniquely you. It's that intangible, yet oh-so-real part of you that houses your passions, dreams, and the very core of your being. But life's challenges, disappointments, and traumas can sometimes leave our spirits feeling wounded or disconnected. It's essential to acknowledge and honor these experiences, for they shape us, but they don't define us.
Cool, So How Do I Nurture This Thing?
Self-Compassion: Begin by treating yourself with the same kindness you'd offer your best friend. Take stock and validate any pain or suffering your spirit has endured, maybe see if it has a place in your body, and ask it what it needs. Seriously, you may think that sounds buts but it works. Here are a few other ways to reignite your vibe:
Mindfulness and Presence: Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation, deep breathing, or grounding exercises, can help you reconnect with your energy. This shit is not easy. Don’t quit because “I’m bad at meditation.” That’s kind of the point. If you were “good” at it, you probably wouldn’t need it so much.
Creative Expression: Art, music, writing, and other creative outlets can be powerful conduits for letting that chi flow. Let yourself explore these mediums without judgment, allowing your spirit to speak its truth. This is also not easy. I’m no painter, but when I try, I get paralyzed staring at a blank canvas.
Connection with Nature: Spending time outdoors can do wonders for your je ne sais quoi. Nature has a way of grounding us, refreshing us, and pulling us out of our heads. Also, it smells nice.
Gratitude Practice: Incorporate a daily gratitude practice into your routine. This can be as simple as writing down one thing a day you’re thankful for. Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can help your energy lift.
Setting Boundaries: Take care of your spirit by setting healthy boundaries. Learn to say no to what drains you and yes to what brings you joy.
Marie Kondo that shit
And On That Note of Joy…
6. Celebrate Milestones: We overlook so many things worth celebrating. Every step forward in your healing journey is a milestone worth a party, or at least a high-five. These victories remind us of the strength within our spirits. Most of my therapy clients are familiar with my air high-fives or my, “Uh can we pause to celebrate that for a minute!?” I love celebrating you. And me. And anything, really.
What’s On This Week?
We’ll be talking on Instagram this week about restoring your spirit!
Check out this week’s episode of Conversations with a Wounded Healer on Wednesday. Sarah and Elena have a magical conversation about witchcraft and connecting with our spirits and nature.
Come practice with me at a yoga class and gong bath in Brighton on Saturday at 9:30am where I’ll invite you to set your intention around connecting to your spirit.
As always
If you’re struggling with mental health, internalized racism, or looking to explore your power and privilege Get in touch to find out more about what I offer!
If you’re in Brighton, I’ll hope to see you on the mat. If you’re far away, I’ll look forward to hearing your feedback on the podcast and hearing from you on Instagram.
Until next week, take good care!
Anne
