Treat Yourself Today

You are worth celebrating just as you are today, but we often feel like we need a reason to reward ourselves. We tell ourselves, "We'll crack open that new journal later. "We'll save that candle for when we have company. "We'll make that fun recipe once we get that promotion." This is normal and human. We want to have something to look forward to, but it is important to remember that you are worthy of special things just as you are today. You don't have to wait for another person or an achievement or an event to enjoy what you have. Let's honor your worth with today's practice. (soft music) Find a position of rest and comfort. Once you're there, begin to roll your head gently to the right. Move slowly and mindfully, pausing when you find areas of tension to relax and release. When you have completed a few full circles, reverse directions. Be gentle with yourself, taking time to release as you encounter tension. Slow your circles and return to center, lifting through the crown of your head. Gently close your eyes if you can and take a deep breath in and out. Take a moment to slow and deepen your breath, releasing any tension you're carrying with each exhale. (soft music) Imagine a closed drawer in your mind. Inside this drawer is something you have been saving for some future occasion. Some of us like to save objects. Some of us like to save feelings or experiences or kind words for ourselves. What is inside your drawer? I'll give you some time to think about it. (soft music) Now, we are going to open our drawers together. Reach out and grab the handle of your drawer and start to pull until it opens. What is inside for you? What does it feel like? What are its contours? If you picked it up, would it have a scent? Take the object out and imagine yourself enjoying it, whatever that means to you. (soft music) I hope that felt good. In the hustle and bustle of life, we might not even realize that we haven't taken the time to nourish and celebrate ourselves. It takes practice to learn what makes us feel good. It takes thought to notice what we might be putting off and it takes strength to insist to ourselves that we are always worthy of joy, in each and every moment. Let's take a final deep breath in and out, and wrap your arms around you. You deserve joy. You deserve safety. You deserve fun. You deserve rest. You do not need permission. You are the special occasion. Giving yourself a gentle squeeze, thank yourself for making time for this moment of presence and peace today. Repeat this after me, out loud or in your head. "I am open to joy every day. "I am open to joy every day." Take time for yourself today to celebrate all that you are. When you're ready, let your...