MissN's Blog Bits: Pamper Yourself?

When a friend or relative is sick, or even on the mend, we often say things like “pamper yourself.” I might say, “Give yourself a hug – whatever that means for you: a walk, a hot fudge sundae – whatever.” But we say similar things (though the last comment is more for emotional well-being) and we always mean something good. We mean well.

But why do we say it?

Is it pampering to wisely do the things that will improve our health? Is it simply good health care?

Our visceral reaction to “pamper” is utterly different than our reaction to “good health care.”

Pamper conveys self-indulgence, even spoiling. Good health care tells us we are prudent, practicing self-care with good old common sense.

Words are important. We see that in politics and bias; let’s look to ourselves as well in very personal ways. Be careful how you talk to yourself; it can have a lasting effect. As a psychologist, speaking on positive attitude, said years ago: Be careful what you say, your “self” is listening.

#goodhealth #selfcare #wordsaffectus #blog #bloggers

MissN's Blog Bits: September Story

If I could do it, I would not recall anything about September.

I can’t forget any of it.

It always started off nice and always ended with some horrific circumstance.

I love September. I love the cooler weather, having more energy, and feeling connected again to nature. I love trees, rocks, and earth. They are beautiful any time of year but, after the oppressive heat of summer, I feel a surge of connection again.

Now I dread it – while trying hard not to cause a neurotic, self-fulfilling prophecy of doom.

September. 

All sorts of words - none pleasant - come to mind but, in fact, it's not September I reject. It's my feelings about the memories...the memories.

And yet…

I love the cooler air, the changing trees, and the newness of a different season. i have survived my Septembers and the memories, though not always prettily.

All my life could be summed up in my Septembers.