Nurturing Your Soul

Emotions can get the best of anyone. Especially, these days when the future seems uncertain. Times may be hard right now, but that doesn't mean we need to mope around and rally up a mob mentality. Since a cushy sofa and a therapist is a bit out of reach for most, we must come to grips with our own sanity in a do-it-yourself approach.

In order to lift our mood and calm our minds, the most important thing to do is to value our spirit. This will entail careful thought and sincere consideration. Here are some tips that will help unleash your own creativity in order to cultivate an emotionally healthier new you. Self-motivation is key here.

1. Allow yourself to indulge in a decadent dessert, without not once thinking about the dreaded "thigh effect".
2. Take a class that is not work-related, but something you would truly enjoy. An art class, a beginner's yoga or a French class for that fantasy trip to Paris someday.
3. A complete and full-massage from head to toe. No need to feel self-conscious, this has now become a necessity for the new woman that places her nurturing a top priority.
4. Grab a cheap romance novel and head for the beach. There is nothing quite like being transported into a totally new world. Your mind will have no room to create anxiety or stress, it'll be too busy soaking up the faraway characters and exotic destinations.
5. Buy yourself something new that you usually don't wear, but have always wanted to try. A sexy back-baring dress or a sexy black nightie, anything that will remind you of the gorgeous ultra-feminine woman that you are.
6. Rent a bunch of old movies from the 40's. Films such as "The Philadelphia Story" with Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn or "Letter from an Unknown Woman" with Joan Fontaine and Louis Jourdan will remind you of an era full of glamour and old world charm. Ordering Chinese food and a bottle of good wine and you've created an amazing and nurture-filled evening in.
7. Create a sanctuary that is only for you. A small space set aside for your complete privacy and solitude. Surround yourself with your favorite things, photos that remind you of happy times, romantic mementos from your past, and personalized scents that conjure up sensual thoughts.
8. Get back in touch with nature. A nature walk in a park you've never been, will allow you to think and breathe more clearly. You'll be surprised at how much problem solving can be accomplished when you can experience the dirt beneath your feet.
9. Dare to do something you've always wanted to do. Learn how to ballroom dance or take up skydiving. This is ultimately freeing and will convince you that anything is possible.
10. Soak in a bathtub full of rose petals and exotic bath oils. Imagine the possibilities of your life. Often times, we don't allow ourselves the luxury to indulge in something so soothing and peaceful. We are so worth it.
11. Remember how it was to be a kid? Sitting on a swing or playing in a sandbox? Why not play with your kids and meet them on their own turf. Your kids will forever appreciate the memories you've created for them, that will undoubtedly last a lifetime.
12. Visit a museum. Imagining what the artist might have been thinking and feeling, will open you up to another time in history. This can be a very magical experience.
13. Decide to just stay in bed for a whole day. Revel in the fact that you have decided take advantage of those cozy sheets and comfortable mattress. Listen to your favorite old songs, do a crossword puzzle or catch up on the phone with old friends you've been meaning to reconnect with.
14. Flirt openly and outrageously. Las Vegas is not the only place this is allowed. You'll be surprised at how liberating and freeing striking up a conversation with someone interesting can truly be.
15. Start a "Gratitude" journal. Make a commitment to write down at least 5 things every day that you are sincerely grateful for. This is life-transforming and will change the way you feel about yourself, your surroundings and ultimately your life.

Make up your own list and seriously follow through. Your lover, children, friends, neighbors, boss and dog will endlessly thank you.