Post by Wendy Kelly, Medical Herbalist MNIMH at Health Food and More.
We’ve all heard the old adage “charity begins at home” and the same, too, can be said for kindness. Yet, despite our best efforts to be kind – to friends, family, colleagues, NHS workers and elderly and vulnerable shoppers – we tend to forget to be kind to ourselves.
We can be quick to judge ourselves, focus on our own shortcomings or work ourselves into the ground in a way we would never consider acceptable for anyone else.
But to be kind to others – and fulfil our roles as attentive caregivers, compassionate friends and well-functioning family members – we must first be kind to ourselves.
Without self-love, care and compassion, soon comes stress, poor mood and, ultimately, ill health. That’s why taking care of ourselves should be our top priority – especially now, in the midst of a pandemic.
There are lots of simple ways to practise self-kindness, such as slowing down in the middle of a busy day or taking some time out to read a book. You could take a walk in the sunshine, have a seat in the garden, or pick up the phone and connect with a friend.
Some of my favourite self-care activities are inspired by Mother Nature. Researchers have found that spending time outdoors, such as in the woods, forest or on the beach, can even help to relieve stress and anxiety and boost feelings of happiness and wellbeing.
Here are five other nature-inspired activities that you can do at home to show yourself some kindness.
Take A Herbal Bath
Taking a bath is a classic way to relax and unwind. To enhance the experience, make your own herbal bath blend by popping a handful of porridge oats into a clean sock and adding some dried rosemary and a chamomile teabag. Tie a knot in the sock and chuck it into the bath while it’s still running.
Once you’re in the bath, squeeze the sock to release the soothing herb-infused oat milk, which is not only incredibly moisturising but rich in phytonutrients which help to nourish and restore the nervous system.
The result? Herbal bliss for frayed nerves and frazzled brains!
Cleanse Your Body From The Inside
Feeling good on the outside starts by treating yourself well on the inside. Cleavers, which are known in Scotland as Sticky Willy, make a wonderfully simple and nutritious drink with detoxifying qualities. To prepare, just take a handful of Cleavers (making sure to pick them before they flower), rinse to clean, pop in a jug of water overnight and enjoy the cleansing, cucumber-like water the next day.
Sip A Cup Of Healing Herbal Tea
Wrapping your hands around an aromatic steaming mug of herbal tea can feel like such a treat. My favourite herbal cuppa for kindness is Rose. It’s used by herbalists as a relaxing nervous system herb and always feels like a herbal hug in a mug!
Enjoy Essential Oils
Burn or diffuse essential oils around your home to uplift or relax you. If your surroundings smell good, you feel good! My favourite combinations are Rosemary with Basil to focus and motivate, Grapefruit with Bergamot to uplift and cheer up and Lavender with Sweet Orange to soothe and relax.
Hang Out With A Tree
There’s lots of scientific evidence to suggest that just being in the presence of trees and nature can uplift and soothe us. If you’re feeling brave, you can even give a tree a big warm hug! Hugging releases all sorts of feel good hormones, and wrapping your arms round a big, solid, dependable tree can be a very grounding and reassuring experience in uncertain times.
Above all, be good to yourself. As the Buddha once said: “If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” Your mind and body will thank you for it!
About The Author
Wendy Kelly MNIMH is a consultant medical herbalist at Health Food and More in Scotland. She is currently offering online consultations for common ailments, such as digestive issues, anxiety, stress and sleep disorders.
For a medical herbalist near you, visit the National Institute of Medical Herbalists.
