Happy People Take Care

Happy people take care of themselves.  As one who has wandered the hallows of depression and self-loathing, I’ve moved past jealousy into admiration of people who are genuinely happy.  I’ve noticed in my watching and note-taking, that these people are the ones who address all their needs (as much as able) physically, spiritually, and mentally.

If they feel like taking a walk, they take a walk.  If an eloquent speaker is in town, they attend a session.  If they feel pride rising up, they say what they have done well and say thanks to God for the ability to do it.

It is not a doctrine of indulgence, but one of enjoyment.  To me, the key principal is this: We like certain activities, foods, and art for a reason.  The reason is mysterious, but maybe is best stated as “it connects with us.”  When a woman is pregnant, most doulas will tell her to listen to her body and give it what it asks for.  In the same way, we should listen to our likes and give ourselves those things.  We all have joy inside us longing to come out and be known.  We have to learn how to let release it.

As you know, I connect strongly with a cup of hot cocoa with cinnamon.  It makes a difference in my body.  It changes me.  Why should I deny myself this good thing?  If I feed my body rightly, it won’t crave other, unhealthy foods.  I learned this concept in Italy, where every ingredient is fresh.  I found that giving myself the most healthy options reduced the desire for unhealthy, unreal substitutes.  I had little physical longing to snack.  The only time I really craved snack foods was when I was emotionally unhealthy–i.e. not giving my emotions what they needed, which could have easily been singing a song or writing a poem.

Ask yourself today, “What do you need, Self?  A photo shoot?  A place to sing real loud?  A cup of hot cocoa?”  Then, go ahead and take care of that.  Here’s to your happiness and enjoyment of life!