Your Body, Your Home-base, Your Sanctuary

Home is where the heart is

We all cherish that wonderful feeling of being at home. It’s where we feel secure, protected by modern safety measures and surrounded by those who truly understand us. These are the people who uplift us when external challenges arise. And let’s not forget the comforts. Who doesn’t love a large TV to enjoy our favorite shows. A luxurious couch that enhances the experience of morning coffee. Your garden brings calmness to life when everything feels chaotic. The scents of a freshly baked apple crumble wafting from the kitchen evoke warmth and nostalgia. A personal library corner offers the pleasure of being lost in intriguing stories. Soft, ambient lighting creates a soothing atmosphere in the evenings. A cozy bed layered with plush blankets ensures restful sleep, rejuvenating us for whatever the next day holds.

Often, we forget that our body is our primary home. Treating ourselves with kindness and forgiveness is essential. This allows us to feel safe in this home. We should extend ourselves the same understanding we give to a friend. Replace negative self-talk with positive reinforcements, the same way we would to a dejected child. Accept your perceived weaknesses and consider turning them into aspirations. Are you providing your body and soul with the nourishment they crave? Do you like spending time in nature? Or indulging in a relaxing bath-soak after a long day. What activities help you connect with your home-base – your body.

Tuning in

Many of us tend to overlook the significance of recognizing our body as our foremost sanctuary. Amidst the bustling pace of modern life, reconnecting with our inner self, our true home base, is paramount. Our bodies can be a place of peace and refuge – a sanctuary where we can retreat from the chaos around us. Here are five things that have helped me stay connected with myself and to make my home-base a sanctuary.

Mind-Body practices – Mind body practices like yoga, offer profound awareness of the body. By tuning into physical sensations, I attentively listen to the signals my body conveys. Similarly, breath meditation serves as another centering practice, guiding my focus inward. This form of meditation involves maintaining concentration on the breath with each inhale and exhale, observing the natural rhythm of breathing. Although fundamentally simple, the challenges of our externally driven lifestyles make this practice more difficult than it seems. Nevertheless, the effort is invaluable, yielding rich rewards.

Self-Compassion – as mentioned earlier, treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your feelings without judgment. Offer yourself the same care and support you would give to a friend. This can help to foster a positive relationship with your body.

Connection with Nature – Spending time in nature can have a calming and restorative effect on our bodies and minds. Take a walk in the park. Go for a hike in the mountains. Simply sit in your garden. Make time to connect with the natural world.

check out this trail walk app for ideas – AllTrails: Trail Guides & Maps for Hiking, Camping, and Running | AllTrails

Gratitude & Positivity – Cultivating a mindset of gratitude and positivity can help to shift your perspective and create a more peaceful inner environment. A good way is to take time each day to reflect on what you are grateful for and focus on the positive aspects of your life. Gratitude journals are a great way to get your started. Gratitude journals are a great way to get your started.

Check out this link for some ideas – 11 Best Gratitude Journals to Show Thankfulness in 2024 – Happier Human

Healthy Boundaries – Set healthy boundaries to protect your time and energy. Learn to say no to activities or commitments that drain you, and prioritize activities that nourish your body and soul.

I find planners a great tool to map out my week so i can schedule in time for self-care and relaxation.

Check out this link for ideas – 20 Best Planners of 2024, According to Editors and Reviews (goodhousekeeping.com)

Only friend till the end

In the end, your body is the one true home you carry with you through life. Treating it as a sanctuary means honoring its needs, nurturing its strength and appreciating it’s resilience. It’s not about perfection but about cultivating a relationship of respect and care. Have a great day!