In this moment, pause for self-care. Check-in with yourself and how you have been reflecting over the season. It’s not too late to do things differently and pluck yourself out of the same annual rut. Make one small improvement and celebrate your progress.

Last issue until Jan 1 - Merry Christmas!

Self-Care is Others-Care

Have a thought-provoking question to pose? An interesting response? We want to hear your story. Be heard. comment@tanapattenpoole.com

How well do you receive?

Let’s face it – there will be times this month when you may feel like you have nothing left to give. How well are you able to receive? In this season, people want to give to you, as well. Can you receive the little blessings other people offer you?

 1. Recognize

Be on the lookout for little ways others are trying to bless you. If you are married, it is likely your kind and caring spouse is trying to soften the edges of this season. Look for ways they are trying to bless you. Your sweet children may come home with a beautiful art project they made for you. Don’t overlook that it truly is the thought that counts. Be on the lookout for when others are trying to care for you.

 2.  Receive Well

If someone pays you a compliment or gives you a gift, are you able to simply say, “Thank you”? That’s all that is required. You do not need to explain yourself or make excuses. Just say “Thank you”. Smile and move on.

 3. Relish

Enjoy yourself. No one knows what you like or need more than you. Create moments and opportunities for you to truly enjoy the seasons, and receive from yourself the gift of time, love, and attention for yourself. Can you receive from yourself without feeling guilty?

Gracious receiving blesses you and the giver. Smile, and enjoy the season and all that it offers you.

Self-care can mean indulgence, but indulgence does not have to mean expensive. Here are a few simple and inexpensive ways to indulge yourself this season.

Buy a piece of jewelry

Something simple, like earrings, or a cute necklace that adds something fresh to your wardrobe. Target has cute options. Guys can buy a new belt, or wallet, or even a great winter-season tool – TikTok shop has some fun new guy toys.

Try a new perfume

It’s a new season, try a new scent.  We often switch scents for our home throughout the year, now’s the perfect time to try a new scent. Head to Bath and Body Works for a trendy and affordable options.

It’s time to journal

Nothing is like releasing all your thoughts and emotions onto a fresh piece of paper. Splurge for a Christmas journal and a beautiful pen to go with it. Or maybe you prefer a fun colored pencil set and want to draw. Tap into your artistic side (we all have one) and express yourself differently this season.

When considering self-care, consider all your senses. Consider the things you smell, what you hear, what you see, what you taste and touch. Indulge yourself in these areas, in simple ways, and I promise, you will feel refreshed.

Have a recommendation for your area? Submit it to: comment@tanapattenpoole.com. Include your location and permission to use your first name or not.

WHAT I’M LIKING

Gratitude

Here are a few of my favorite expressions of gratitude - simple, inexpensive and impactful. It’s good for them, and you!

Personal Note

Ah, the lost art of personal note-writing! In today’s age of immediate and tech-savvy, nothing is more personal than a hand-written note. It’s my favorite way to stand out and be different - try it!

Personalized Gift

It’s just not that hard anymore. Any number of websites offer personalization, including initials, first or last name, or even a favorite saying between friends. Super-impactful!

Photo Book

 More than just pictures, gather notes of care from friends and include them in your photo book. You just went from gift to memento - kudos!

What are you liking? I’d love to hear about it at: comment@tanapattenpoole.com