Day 20 – Feed the Soul
Feed the soul is about nurturing oneself. Today’s lesson is focused on learning to be kind and gentle with ourselves no matter the circumstances and especially when we aren’t feeling great. It’s even more important when we’ve made a mistake or had a fight with a loved one. Often when obstacles show up, we tend to be harder on ourselves. Take a moment and breathe before reacting to the situation. What would you say to a child or a close friend in this situation?
Having self-compassion is key to feeding your soul. When we offer this gift to ourselves, it makes it easier to let go of guilt, self-doubt, fear or anger because we realize we are human. A few quick and easy tips to practice feeding your soul:
- Slow down and be present, pause and take a deep breath in counting slowly 1, 2, 3, 4 and then hold the breath for 4 counts and then slowly release the breath over 4 counts. This will immediately lower the cortisol (stress hormone) in your brain allowing you to relax in that moment.
- Self -compassion recognizes what you have in your life and are grateful for it. Think of 3 things that you are truly grateful for and name them out loud and feel the gratitude in your body. This will immediately increase the serotonin in your brain releasing the happy hormones.
- Another way to be kind and gentle to yourself especially when you are physically or emotionally tired or drained is to literally nourish yourself – make a pot of homemade chicken soup. There is a reason they say chicken soup is good for the soul.
In fact, according to BIDMC clinical dietitian Sandy Allonen, RD, says “Chicken is high in tryptophan, which helps your body produce serotonin that can enhance your mood and give you the feeling of ‘comfort’ that helps make chicken noodle soup a true comfort food.” All of these tips will help you nurture your soul.
Activity: Choose one way today to feed your soul. You can use one of our tips mentioned or something else that makes you feel calm and nurtured. Or, form a “Soul Club” to support and nurture each other to be kind and compassionate with yourself.