Finding the river within (by KJ Shapiro)

Taking care of ourselves at the most profound level can mean making time to be with our inner selves. Whether we connect with our sense of a higher energy, nature, or our sense of our true voice within, we touch a place that is outside of the usual frenzy and hurry. For those of you who have not read Abby Seixas lovely book, Finding the Deep River Within: A Woman’s Guide to Recovering Meaning and Balance in Everyday Life. I wholeheartedly recommend it. In her book and website and workshops, she helps us to slow down and listen to the current of the deep river inside us.

Do what makes you feel more in tune with your self and your peace. Is it music, writing, meditating, spending time with certain people, walking in nature or praying? Perhaps it is something else altogether—or maybe there is a place you go to that nourishes your spirit?

As we feel more grounded and at peace, we are able to venture forth once again into the frenetic pace of the world. December is a time of increased focus on giving and sharing… as well as a time that many women experience heightened stress. If you can, try to maintain your mindfulness of self-care—to nurture your physical, emotional, interpersonal, work, and spiritual well being.  Doing so isn’t selfish—in fact, the replenished self you find will be a gift to the others in your world.

Take CARE of yourself–

It’s the only self you’ve got.

And be NICE to your self–

Please be nice an awful lot.

You are stuck with yourself

So you might as well start now.

Just be GOOD to yourself–

There’s a hundred good ways how…

By Karen Jo Shapiro

BIO
Karen Jo Shapiro is a licensed psychologist who practices as a leadership, career, and personal development coach. In her private practice, Your Next Steps Coaching, (www.ynscoaching.com), she works with individuals and groups, both in person and by phone, as well as lead workshops, ongoing groups, and trainings. She is especially interested in helping women to succeed in their dreams (whether career transition, entrepreneurial, artistic or other), build strong relationships with other women, and take care of themselves.

She is also on adjunct faculty at the Center for Creative Leadership and a member of the Guilford County Non-Profit Consortium.

Karen Jo is a mother of a 14-year-old girl and 9-year-old boy. She is the author of two children’s poetry books by Charles bridge. (www.kjshapiro.com)