As the brisk days of February sweep in, a unique energy surrounds us. It is a month known for the celebration of love, and while Valentine’s Day often takes the spotlight, February also holds a deeper, more personal significance. This is a time to turn inward, focus on heart health, embrace grief, and prioritize radical rest and self-care. Here’s how you can harness the energy of February to foster love and compassion for yourself.
Heart Health: A Matter of Love
February is designated as American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health. The heart, both a physical and symbolic organ of love, deserves our utmost attention. Simple steps to enhance heart health include:
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Eating a balanced diet: Incorporate heart-healthy foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. I went Whole Food Plant Based in 2021, it saved me from Fatty Liver, 40 weight gain and mental health improved, a ton!
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Regular physical activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
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Stress management: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress levels.
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Regular check-ups: Stay on top of your heart health with routine medical check-ups.
Grief Support: Navigating Through Loss
Grief is an inevitable part of life, and it often resurfaces during the quieter moments of winter. February’s introspective energy provides a gentle reminder to address and process our grief. As a tribute to my dear mom, whose heavenly birthday falls in February, I find solace in these acts of remembrance:
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Acknowledge your feelings: Allow yourself to feel the full spectrum of emotions without judgment.
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Seek support: Connect with friends, family, or support groups who understand your experience.
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Express yourself: Engage in creative outlets like writing, painting, or music to process your feelings.
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Professional help: Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor specialized in grief support.
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Somatic Practices: Get into the body, move, dance, scream and cry it out!
Radical and Psychic Rest: Reclaiming Rest as a Right
In our fast-paced world, rest is often undervalued. However, radical rest is a revolutionary act of self-care. This February, make a conscious effort to prioritize rest and rejuvenation, not just for your body but also for your mind and spirit:
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Create a bedtime routine: Establish a calming pre-sleep routine to signal to your body that it’s time to unwind.
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Unplug: Limit screen time, especially before bed, to improve sleep quality.
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Listen to your body: Allow yourself to rest when you feel fatigued, without guilt.
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Engage in restful activities: Find what relaxes you, be it reading, meditating, or simply taking a leisurely walk.
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Psychic rest: Take breaks from overthinking and mental stress. Engage in mindfulness practices, quiet reflection, or simply moments of stillness to recharge your mind.
Self-Care and Compassion: Nurturing Love Within
While February often emphasizes external expressions of love, it’s equally important to cultivate love and compassion for yourself. Self-care is a personal journey that can take many forms:
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Practice self-kindness: Speak to yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a dear friend.
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Set boundaries: Protect your energy by setting and respecting personal boundaries.
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Engage in activities you love**: Dedicate time to hobbies and passions that bring you joy.
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Reflect and affirm: Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on your achievements and affirming your worth. Click here for inspiration!
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Try STARFISHING: Lay on the floor, spread arms and legs, do nothing.
Celebrating February: Flowers, Crystals, Galentine’s Day, and Laughter
February is not only a month of introspection but also of celebration. The flower of February is the violet, symbolizing faithfulness, wisdom, and hope. The amethyst, February’s birthstone, is known for its calming energy and is said to promote balance and peace.
And let’s not forget Galentine’s Day, celebrated on February 13th—a day to honor and cherish the bonds of friendship among women. It’s a perfect opportunity to spread love and laughter with your closest friends:
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Plan a get-together: Host a fun gathering with your friends to celebrate your friendship.
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Exchange thoughtful gifts: Show appreciation with small, meaningful tokens of friendship.
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Share memories: Reminisce about your favorite moments together and create new ones.
Amidst the focus on health and self-care, let’s not forget to invite more laughter into our lives. Laughter is, after all, the best medicine:
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Watch a comedy: Pick a feel-good movie or stand-up special to lift your spirits.
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Share jokes with friends: Laughter is contagious; share funny moments with loved ones.
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Embrace playfulness: Engage in activities that make you smile, like playing games or dancing around the house.
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Tap into your inner child, reclaim fun and play with your kids, grandkids and animals!
Conclusion
February’s energy is a beautiful blend of love, reflection, and renewal. By focusing on heart health, addressing grief, embracing radical and psychic rest, and practicing self-care, we can transform this month into a time of profound personal growth. Remember, the most important love story is the one you have with yourself. Celebrate it with the same enthusiasm as any grand romance, and let this month be a testament to the love and compassion you deserve. And, of course, sprinkle in lots of laughter to lighten your heart and soul. This February, honor your ancestors heavenly birthday, and let their memory be a source of strength and love.
I recorded a video all about February here