I’ve been pondering today my role as a woman. In the work I do as a consultant for Bubble Goddess Bath Co. I am continually challenging women to take time for themselves and to do it joyfully, freely and without guilt. I have had more than a few women thank me for reminding them about the importance of self-care and self-nurturing. Allowing ourselves to be pampered is not an indulgence–it is a necessity!
Yet, today I must acknowledge that I myself have a hard time doing just that on a regular basis. Why is it so hard to disregard the laundry, the dishes, the bills–or whatever else seems to be in front of me–and take a bit of time for myself? This morning I allowed these responsibilities to prevent me from doing my morning ritual–meditative time and my Salutation to the Sun practice. Yes, I allowed it! No one told me that I had to take care of the chores I turned into a priority. No one was even yet awake in my house!
Two years ago I thought I learned the lesson of putting my own self-care and self-nurturing first, after experiencing breast cancer. Having a disease show up in the area of my heart chakra was a big wake-up call. To me, it was a big loud scream from my inner core to be more loving and forgiving of myself–less of a perfectionist. Yet, as time has passed, I have become more complacent. I have begun to slip back into old habits.
As women, we often try to be everything for everyone. This can come with a big price tag–not necessarily in the form of disease. It can be the inability to sleep well at night, hormonal imbalances, less ability to cope with daily stressors, or just plain exhaustion. Do we have to get to the point of a “problem” to listen to what our bodies and our souls are crying out for? I think not.
I am woman but I don’t have to roar in order to hear myself or be heard. My body doesn’t have to present me with a physical challenge in order to get my attention. And I don’t have to explain or rationalize to anyone the importance of taking some time each day to break from the daily regimen and do what brings me pleasure and solace. I am strong, but to prove that, I don’t have to demonstrate my talents as the “ever-ready bunny!” Contrary to what Helen Reddy sang some years ago, I really am not invincible.
This is my one life as Donna and I want it to be a long and fulfilling one. So, starting today, I am recommitting myself to ME–to the Bellisima Goddess that I strive to be. I hope you’ll join me!
Now…off to the bathtub with a luxurious milkbath…
