Are you being gentle with yourself during this national
emergency? Are you practicing loving kindness to you? Or, are you being
harder on yourself than you would be to a stranger?
It’s easy to find yourself in that boat. I, for one, was
beating myself up with negative self-talk and criticism—analyzing every food choice
I made and not allowing myself joyful or comfort eating.
We all need comfort
during this quarantine, and if food is not your only choice for comfort, then give
yourself a break now and then.
My favorite comfort food is tortellini. Instead of buying
the big bag, I purchase Amy’s Pesto Tortellini in a single serving container.
Does it have too much saturated fat? Sure. Is it too salty? Yes. But do I have
them for an occasional dinner with a side salad and feel comforted and happy?
Absolutely!
There are other ways of finding comfort during this time
than eating. You can call a friend, get lost in that novel you’ve put off
reading. Order an adult coloring book, have a cup of hot tea, relax with a
magazine, take a long hot bath, light a candle (be mindful that scented candles
around pets is not advised), or put on some soothing music.
What about your self-talk? Are you giving yourself a hard
time for eating too much junk, not exercising enough, being short with your
children, not keeping your house spotless, not doing enough yard work, worrying
too much about the future, being a “bad” spouse, or parent? You get the idea.
Be
aware of how you speak to yourself. Change your inner dialogue to be gentler.
You deserve better.
When you practice kindness toward yourself, it will be
easier for you to be kind to your spouse, your children, your friends. We will
get through this and berating yourself will only make you feel defeated. Stamp
out the ANTS (automatic negative thoughts). Take time to appreciate all that
you have and all that you are. Be kind to yourself. I know it’s not always easy.
It takes practice. But there is no one better to practice on than you!
Thinking
of you! Stay safe. --Lisađź’–
