FIRST THOUGHT: Putting Yourself First
When you think of self-care, what comes to mind? Engaging in luxurious spa routines and embracing moments of Zen pop up in my head, along with indulging in copious amounts of green smoothie. But writer Brianna Wiest speaks the not-so-attractive truth: Sometimes self-care means creating a fixed budget or axing a toxic friend. Self-care can be making tough decisions that, in the end, are good for you. Today, show yourself a little love in ways that will improve your long-term wellness.
WOMEN IN NUMBERS: 5
In Gary Chapman’s book, The 5 Love Languages, the author breaks down five ways in which love equates to self-care and explains how to apply practical self-care suggestions to real life. First, practice daily affirmations that encourage self-compassion. Also, exercise acts of service for yourself, like eating healthy and creating a pleasing home environment. Give yourself gifts that enhance your life, like treating yourself to a trip or investing in your education. Make sure you’re carving out enough quality me time, and connect with your body in ways that make you feel relaxed and stress-free, whether through a good workout or soaking in a hot bath.
WOMAN TO WATCH: Remi Ishizuka, Wellness Coach and Fitness Blogger
Sometimes seeing someone else practice self-care is just what we need to motivate us to do the same. For many women, that motivation comes in the form of the inspirational Remi Ishizuka, a popular wellness coach and lifestyle blogger who has a passion for healthy living and self-care.
Remi, who shares her adventures on her lifestyle blog, grew her business out of a desire for change. Before Remi was in touch with her self-love side, she worked as a busy interior designer. Even though it was a stable full-time job, her heart was elsewhere. She kept coming back to the idea that if you don’t build your own dream, someone else will hire you to help them build theirs. Emboldened by that concept, Remi quit her job, deciding instead to build her own dream, create her own brand and embrace the entrepreneurial life.
For Remi, self-care involves waking up well before 8 a.m. to start her day with a vigorous workout followed by a healthy breakfast. In fact, Remi is known as a breakfast guru, having gotten her start in the blogosphere by sharing pics of her gorgeously prepared and scrumptious breakfast bowls.
Remi is a master of the morning routine, and gives readers some helpful tips for taking the idea of productive mornings from a wistful dream to a daily reality. First, she says, be truthful with yourself. If the idea of waking up at 5:30 a.m. to lunges and squats makes you want to scream, that’s probably not the morning routine for you. Also, write down your planned morning routine and tack it in a place you see often. Don’t forget to prioritize what’s actually most important to you, whether it’s stretching or taking time to eat breakfast instead of cramming something into your mouth on your drive to work.
Sharing her health-and-wellness ideas has made Remi a go-to guru in the industry, with top brands clamoring to partner with her. Currently, she’s kicking major booty as a Global Adidas Ambassador, providing feedback on performance products and what can be improved.
Remi proves that following your dreams and making time daily to care for yourself—focusing on wellness from the inside out—can be life-changing. As Remi says, “Eat well, sweat more, self-love always!”
QUITE THE QUOTE
Today’s inspiring quote comes from the Buddha:
“You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.”
This is Melinda Garvey signing off until next time. Remember, ladies, empowered women empower other women. Share On the Dot so more women can have a voice. Thanks for getting ready with us.
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