I grabbed my gardening hat, gloves, and trimmer and stepped outside to greet the flowers blooming in my yard. There they were, like familiar friends, each with their own body type, style and personality. Some were wispy and free-spirited, some bold and showy, others delicate and shy. Together, they are exquisite.
As I nurtured and cared for them, they returned the favor; my heart felt like it was singing, my own spirit felt free, and time stood still. I was exactly where I wanted to be.
A hummingbird flitted around the arbor of trumpet vines, a huge bumblebee, who I named Henry, investigated the lilies, and a monarch butterfly visited the coneflowers. And I absorbed it all.
I invited some inside as I selected a few lilies and placed them in a vase to adorn the dining room table. They prompt an inner smile every time I walk past them.
For these reasons, gardening is an act of self-care for me. Since reading Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat, I am more aware than ever why practicing self-care is recommended to enrich our lives. It is a wise and wonderful investment in ourselves.
What are some of your treasured self-care practices?
2 thoughts on “Practicing Self-Care: Mindful Gardening”
That’s lovely. For me..I live in S. Florida about 10 miles from the beach. A girlfriend and I make a point to ride bikes along the beach and take a swim about 4 times a week. We call it our mini morning vacation. All good.. sunshine, exercise, ocean water, and friendship! Very nourishing on so many levels.
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