Both of these sayings remind us that when we are not at our 'peak' we cannot help others. Now, I'm not saying that 'helping others' needs to be your sole goal for looking after yourself, but as far as I can tell most decent humans appreciate the fact that they are able to help others if need be. Helping others can be something as little as being able to be there for a friend or family member that needs an ear or even being able to take a furry loved on out for a walk.
Over the last few years I have spent a lot more time 'filling my own cup' so that when needed, I am able to help fill the cup of others. The thing I love about being able to help fill someone else's cup is that it often helps to top mine up that last little bit when I see just how much my love, support or inspiration can mean to them.
I thought I'd share some of my ways to look after myself, you might find something on the list that you haven't thought would work for you to give a go over the next few weeks or so :)
- Get a good night's sleep. This has been the biggest game changer for me. I get an average of 8 hours sleep every night and it has completed changed my mood, my attitude and my motivation to tackle everything that comes up during a day. Our phones have amazing tools such as the 'Bedtime reminder' on the iPhone to help us achieve this!
- Drink lots of water. Skip the caffeine loaded drinks, especially in the afternoon. Majority of people are dehydrated and confuse this for hunger. Improving your water intake also has other benefits such as clear skin!
- Read. Put the phone down and read something - get transported to another place through words and your own imagination!
- Get outside. Even just a 15 minute walk can help to get you away from the source of stress or anxiety. Fresh air and sunlight is so important for your health and your mood.
- Dance. Put on your favourite tune and have a boogie!! Even when you're sitting in the traffic - a quick car jam can lift your mood so much by just belting out your favourite lyrics!
- Eat more real food. Like the caffeine, processed foods make us feel sluggish. Lots of fresh fruit and vegetables help your body to stay functioning on the inside, especially in your gut and there is a lot of research around the brain-gut connection. If your gut isn't working properly, neither is your brain.
- Hug something fluffy! It's crazy how animals just 'know' when you need a hug. If you don't have a pet, think about volunteering at an animal shelter or finding a great friend who has one that you can 'borrow' every now and then!!
I would love to hear what you are doing today to ensure that your mask is secured first and help fill your cup!!