All of us here at HVN know that life is feeling a bit more challenging these days. Turn on the news, hop on social media, or drive by many of the rallies that are happening around us.

Perhaps you feel yourself spacing out more at work. Or a decreased capacity to do--or accomplish--what you're used to.

Maybe you're plain ol' burnt out.

All of that is understandable...and we feel it too.

In order to hold space for the work we do as clinicians in the body liberation space and support clients that we love, we make self-care a priority.

We thought it may be helpful to hear how we like to take care of ourselves, in case you need some ideas:

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Dominique says:

Self care is so key for me to be the best provider, mom, and human I can be! I feel my best when I’m able to take care of myself by going to therapy, doing creative activities (mostly pottery these days), and moving my body joyfully (walking, hiking, chasing around my kiddo, and can’t wait to check out the My Health Matters gym soon).

Nicole says:

One of my favorite forms of self care is ending my day with reading in bed. A good book helps me disconnect from the day and quiets my mind. A bonus is that it tires my eyes and helps me fall asleep faster.

Morgan says:

For self care recently, I have been loving finding relaxed local fairs to attend - specifically with a Shelburne Falls Smore's coffee in hand. With the leaves changing, I also like getting outside for movement to enjoy the cooler air and have been working to find new running routes that include especially scenic roads around me. Often for me what ends up being the most restorative is prioritizing cozy time at home with my phone nowhere to be found, giving myself the freedom to choose what I need at that moment (whether that is a book or a scary movie or just sitting and cuddling with my cat!).

Heidi says:​
Self-care is not selfish; in times of stress, overwhelm and grief, it's self-preservation. We cannot show up for others in a meaningful and authentic way if we ourselves are running on fumes. Start by embracing simple practices like deep breathing techniques, nature baths, enjoyable movement, naps, and consistent nourishment throughout the day. It is also important that we seek support from our community and loved ones to remind ourselves that we are not alone.

Sam says:

During times where the world feels extra heavy, I try to find small ways to make myself feel lighter during the day, without guilt. Lately I've been doing this by getting outside for a walk with my dog in the crisp fall air, watching Ted Lasso (which is as good as everyone says it is), and reaching out to family and friends when I feel like I need someone to lean on.

Amanda says:

When the world feels too heavy to hold, I go back to basics- meaning, the things that I know that can help my nervous system settle a bit. For me, that's walking and moving my body, spending time with my friends/family, saying NO to a lot of things, and eating a lot of chocolate. I make sure to keep working with my own care team: therapy, acupuncture, neurofeedback, and coaches. I am relying on my CBD nighttime gummies and *trying* not to scroll through social media before bed.

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Sending you all much love,

Amanda and the Happy Valley Team