February Self-Care
February holds space for a gradient of emotions surrounding Black History Month and Valentine’s Day.
Excitement, grief, loneliness, anger, love, anticipation, curiosity… it is all fair game in February. You could experience one or all of these, but they do not have to override your center.
Expanding your self-care is a healthy medium to recalibrate and find stable ground. When was the last time you tried something new like walking in a different park, checking out a book at the library, or trying a new recipe?
When we allow ourselves to be reminded of who we are, it refuels us to handle the world around us.
If Valentine’s Day is rough for you, consider that truth and adjust accordingly. Pause your social media notifications for the weekend. Recalibrate on what you love about yourself. Discover something new in nature. Write a future love note to yourself or write a grateful letter to someone you appreciate. At the core, Valentine’s Day is one day; it does not navigate your life and will be over February 15th.
Black History Month is designed to be celebratory, yet for some, memories of mistreatment are traumatizing. Certain photos and videos can trigger anger, sorrow, and unrest. The truth is history is a complicated tapestry. Be intentional about folding in the good parts of it. Attend an insightful program, talk with an elder about a fun time in life, or read an inspirational children's book. You can research an historical figure that excelled in your industry. Find the celebration.
When moments are unsettling for either occasion, ask yourself the following questions to center yourself:
What do I need right now?
What can I change?
Where do I need to be?
Do what you need to do to be healthy this month. You always deserve a healthy you. February does not have to change that truth. After all, it's also heart health awareness month and that is good reminder to take care of you all year long.
C. J. Wade, MA, LMT
C.J. believes that time for oneself is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Her practice, You Matter Massage & Wellness, operates under the motto "you deserve a healthy you" as she encourages clients in Alabama and beyond. Her expertise includes a health coaching certification from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN) and medical massage experience
