Themes and Takeaways from our Aspen Retreat
At our most recent retreat in Aspen, one of the shared themes that came up with us as a group of women was that we are givers and pleasers. We very easily give to our family, friends, co-workers and naturally put everyone else's needs before our own. In theory, it feels much easier for us to give to everyone but ourselves even at the cost of our own exhaustion and stress. We feel guilt about taking time for ourselves, "treating" ourselves. Taking time and spending money on ourselves feels "selfish" even though we have no problem doing it for other people. Ultimately though, making time for ourselves is the least selfish thing we can do as being the best, happiest version of ourselves means that every one around us is uplifted and benefits!
So with this in mind we invite you to do one thing for yourself today. One thing that makes you happy for you and only you! Whether it's creating time to go to a yoga class, taking five minutes to meditate or sit outside, getting that pumpkin spiced latte that you love, getting a manicure and mini-massage, reading for pleasure-- whatever you do, allow yourself a ritual that honors you.
A quote that inspires us by the brilliant Marianne Williamson:
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
Remember, to shine your bright light, you must keep your tank full! Fill it up, people. And shine on.