These are a few of my favorite things : February Edition

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These are a few of my favorite things : holistic self-care ideas

One of my passions is self-care. The thing about self-care is that most of us "know" we need it, but we do not always know how to do it. This year I am focusing on my holistic self-care. I am trying to intentionally incorporate caring for myself in physical, spiritual, emotional, and relational ways. Here are a few ideas that have helped me in 2016. 

1. Bora Bora Fireballs: Don't let the name scare you off. This is my favorite new recipe of 2016. These meatballs are a gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free meal that taste amazing. What is especially great about this meal is how many you make at once and then can eat throughout the week. But be warned you may go through them faster than you think. Large batch cooking saves time later in the week (and gives you more space for other self-care practices). 

2.  Brené Brown's COURAGEworks Living Brave Semester:  Brené Brown holds a special place in my life. I connect with her work due to her authentic voice and strong research background. Going through her virtual classroom has lead to multiple personal shifts. Read how this class has impacted my re-evaluation of my values. 

3. Diamonds by JohnnySwim: In December I attended JohnnySwim's Holiday show (and I am already hoping they come back to Nashville next December). A few of their songs resonate with me, but this song is one of my new favorites. I love the resilience pouring from this song: "We are the brave. We are the chosen ones. We are the diamonds, rising up out the dust." Listen to Diamonds and let me know what you think. We're the light when the day is done. 

4. Sacred Space: The Prayer Book 2016 - Sacred Space is a book of daily readings that include six prayers, a Scripture reading, and a brief reflection. One thing I love about this book is the way these prayers and reflections often point towards connecting to Jesus through emotional experiences. In my spiritual practice of self-care, I am constantly searching for resources that are able to connect both mentally and emotionally in deepening my faith. This book continues to be a treasure. 

 5. Nayyirah Waheed's poetry: I cannot describe her work and art better than she can. So here are a few of my favorite poems.

What are some of your favorite things in your life? What practices or items are bringing you joy? Do you have any highlights from February?