Blossoming Beyond Neglect
Life has a way of demanding our attention, sometimes diverting our focus from the things that truly matter. In my case, the past two years have been a whirlwind of nurturing and caring for my beautiful baby girl. As a parent, it's only natural to put our little ones first, but in doing so, we often forget the importance of nourishing our own souls. In the past, I've found peace in gardening, so this spring as I was feeling particularly overwhelmed and anxious I started working on bringing my garden back to life.
Within this garden, nestled amidst the tangled mess, stands a remarkable tree—the Moringa tree. I planted this tree in 2015 with hope and anticipation. And year after year, it persevered, slowly growing and reaching for the sun- a testament to the resilience of nature- though it never really looked full or bountiful. In the process of revitalizing the garden, to my astonishment, my Moringa tree began to flower and bear seed pods, radiating newfound vitality.
I now view it as a gentle reminder that our own transformations take time, and just as a garden requires attentive care and cultivation, our inner selves also need nurturing.
To embark on a path of self-care, a good starting point is to "clear the weeds." Take some time to identify and uproot negative thoughts, habits, and external influences that may hold you back. By prioritizing your needs and removing distractions, you create space for personal growth.
Just like nourishing the earth, it's important to "feed the soil" of your body and mind. Engage in activities and experiences that bring you joy and fulfillment. Embrace moments of solitude and self-reflection to recharge and rejuvenate.
Similar to how sunlight breathes life into a garden, joy & positivity can brighten your life. Seek out activities and connections that bring you happiness. Surround yourself with uplifting people who inspire and support your personal growth.
Remember, cultivating patience is crucial. Embrace the journey of self-care, and celebrate each small victory along the way. Starting small and gradually expanding your self-care routine is perfectly fine.
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook our own needs amidst the demands of daily life. Just as you would tenderly prune and shape the plants in your garden, indulge in activities that bring you joy and allow you to flourish. Whether it's treating yourself to a spa day, losing yourself in a captivating book, or taking up a new hobby, remember that self-care is not selfish—it's necessary.
With love and the promise of blooming gardens, ox Leah