A Time of Self Care

When in training to be a Unity minister, one of the courses we take is on self-care. Why? Because it is very easy to spend more and more time helping others on their human and spiritual journeys, without taking enough time and care for ourselves.

​We have a table of ideas, inviting us to be aware of our diet and exercise, have a meditation practice, spend time on hobbies and relaxing, meet with family and friends and take time out for spiritual renewal. Excellent reminders for all of us.

Yet, so often, life can get in the way of this, asking more and more from us. It is easy to end up feeling burnt out, exhausted or depleted in some way.

The last thing we remember to do is find time for ourselves, at the one point we most need to. If you are experiencing something like this right now, take a moment to stop and just breathe …

When I realised at the end of last year that I was feeling depleted and in need of time out, I requested a Sabbatical, which our Board, bless them, approved very quickly. As I write this article, I am preparing to go away for a month to relaxing North Devon, to enjoy the scenery, air and space of the West Country.
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To be truthful, it took a lot for me to request this. However, I feel relieved that I recognised my need and spoke up when I did, and I am extremely grateful to our Board. Further, I also recognise that this is an example of self-care, encouraging others to do the same. Especially if there is an emotional response to this!

I love my work in Unity and all that I do here. I receive so much from being of service. It is one of the joys of being a Unity Minister. Yet, because as a child, I developed a strong sense of responsibility and the idea that I must work hard for my living, I found myself taking on more and more work, without making enough space for myself to rest and renew. Perhaps you resonate with this as well. Like me, you might love what you do and find it hard to say no to more work.
Yet we can find a way to do this, as Pure Being, the Christ energy within us, never asks us to do anything that removes our health and peace. The opposite is true.

Does this article resonate with you? If so, how can you practice self-care? What can you do for yourself that lifts your heart with joy and peace?  

​Reflect on this for a moment … Acknowledge your desire for this. Then acknowledge any self-talk that tries to talk you out of it … This is not Christ within talking.

Anything that lifts your heart and mind is only ever for the good for you and those around you. The mental chatter that criticises and condemns is the human personality that operates out of ‘not good enough’ ‘must work harder’ etc.

Take some time this month, especially during this season of Lent, for self-care. Like me, you may take up childhood pleasures like colouring, doing a jigsaw, cross-stitching, walking, reading, journaling.

Whatever it is – you are important enough and worthy enough to give yourself this gift. Because as you do, you will be rewarded with a deeper sense of connection to your True Self and enable a beautiful Easter experience of upliftment and ease.

Rev. Kimerie Mapletoft