So, I’ve been thinking about the word “cherish.”
Oddly enough, it occurred to me as I was thinking about self-care. Specifically, about being physically active.
At 54, my physical goals are not the same as they were at 30. Back then, it was all about getting ready for the the bikini season. These days, it’s about staying energetic and supple enough to play with my family, my business and my beloved grandchildren!
Enough of punishing sessions where I pound my body. I’m over it. I’m ready to start CHERISHING my body. My lovely, wonderful body, that has borne children and taken me into so many adventures! What do you need, old friend? Today, maybe it’s a HIIT session. Tomorrow, some deep stretching. Next day, some cardio on the cross trainer. Monday, my body might like some weight training. And Tuesday – hey, maybe it’s just a nice long soak in the bath!
I have a 5 step system for CHERISHING something, or someone. It works for any living organism, including yourself! I call it O.C.E.A.N. And here’s how it works:
- O = Observe
- C= Connect
- E = Engage
- A = Assess
- N = Navigate
First, you tune in and pay attention. You observe. Then you connect (Again – this includes poor, neglected YOU! Think back – when’s the last time you really tuned into your body?!)
Once you’ve connected -then you engage. That means taking action. Do what needs doing. After you’ve taken action, you step back and assess. What worked? What needs work? And then you navigate forward into the next step – whatever needs to happen next.
There you go – cherished.
Rinse and repeat.
If you follow this O.C.E.A.N. pattern, you will never step on anyone’s toes. Never injure yourself, or anyone else. Because you’re paying attention. You’re taking in data. You’re moving according to that data. You’re creating best practice, for yourself and others, as you move forward – step by respectful step.
So – what would it mean to cherish someone you love this way, on Valentine’s Day? Does it mean that you would give them the traditional gift of chocolate?
Maybe. Maybe not….
(Maybe you would give them something that would boost their health, which would also, ultimately, increase their long-term happiness? Just a thought. ; )
What would it really look like, to CHERISH your loved ones?
What would it mean, to CHERISH yourself?
What would it mean, to CHERISH your own microbiome?
If you’re ready to take that step – hop onto live chat, and we’ll tell you how!
Happy nearly-Valentines, to you and yours –
Hugs,
Shann.xx
