Self-Care

At my last therapy session, I was confronted with the fact that I do not do my self-care enough, and it results in a very negative attitude and the temptation to act out, drink, etc.  For me, self-care includes prayer, Bible reading, exercise, and I should be making meetings, but have trouble getting to them during the week.  When I do my self-care, I get more control over my emotional well being.  At times, I will take a bubble bath, and do deep breathing exercises.  I should do the breathing exercises more often. So, I was wondering, what do you all do for self-care?  There was a time when I had to have a list of things for when the urge to drink came.  I thought this might be helpful for all of us if we could brainstorm ideas. Hugs, Trish

not that I have the *urge* to drink.. but when I'm stressed I have lately been reading daily quotes and motivational readings and posting them here and on other boards I visit.  I try to be insightful and offer support to others on the board.  I've been reaching out to friends more.  You can post a reading too if you like it doesn't have to be just one Quote of the Day.  It can be several..   Yesterday I got my haircut .. first time in a very long time.  I feel sassie now *it's shorter, above shoulder*.   I had a giftcard that I received for Christmas.  And then I strolled around some stores.. I don't have the shopping crave, so I'm safe in doing that.  Altho at GoodWill I did find a Brighton Watch for $8.00 that I really love and I'm keeping it for me rather than selling it on ebay.  Also Allie *my cat* follows me around like a puppy dog.. so she soothes me at times.  Good idea Trish.. hope to read some other ideas hugsss

Hey Trish!! As you know, I don't do traditional meetings on a regular schedule. When I feel anxious and ready to shop the world, I come to this board and read everyone's posts until it passes. This board and the people who post here are my lifeline! Marie

Hi all, I am Jill, a grateful recovering alcoholic who can get just as lax as anyone and forget my self-care. I am lucky enough to have three women's meetings that I have the opportunity to attend, I try to make at least one a week, two if I am able. I get really lax on doing my daily readings and time for meditation and prayer. I have not started an exercise program, but plan to do so in the near future. I love this idea. As women, we all need to take better care of ourselves.  thanks for letting me put my two cents in.  Jill

(insert voice - style="yoda") What is this self-care of which you speak?  hmmmmm? See that is my problem - I avoid me and overcare for everybody else in my life.  I didn't get the level of parental care I needed as a child.  My mother abandoned me.  My father resented me.  So MICHELLE is not worthy of care, but she can sure codependently care for everybody else to resolve that right?  Oh no - that just creates a big ole mess. So - here is my commitment - and it's all I can do for this week at least. Self care Contract: * I will spend at least 15 minutes every day in thoughful quiet meditation * I will spend at least 15 minutes every day doing something physical like walking or riding my bike * I will spend at least 15 minutes every day reaching out to another alcoholic on the phone That's not much really, but again - small steps.  This getting back on the wagon crap is not fun - it seems the wagon got bigger and I got smaller. Love you guys, Michelle