As the holiday season is upon us, I just wanted to check in with you all. For many of us, this is an exciting time of year, but for others of us, this time of year is DIFFICULT!! Full transparency, I tend to seesaw between exciting and difficult. If you are anything like me, you know the Winter Blues SUCKS! However, I want to encourage you to do what's best for YOU this season. Don't put yourself on the backburner. Don't forget to take care of yourself. Take the time, space, and energy that is needed to make sure that you are well, mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. 

Here are a few things that I learned on this Self-Care Journey that is especially relevant during this season:

1) Protect your peace at all times. 

Some folks aren't happy until they mess up your peace. When we give them the space and opportunity to do so, it not only affects us but our loved ones as well.  Not everything/everyone deserves a reaction out of us. Sometimes that best reaction is no reaction. It doesn't allow for negative energy and intentions to be transferred to us. 

2) Toxic is Toxic- no matter their titles.

A lot of us endure toxic relationships because of the other person's title, i.e family member, long-time friend, co-worker, significant other. However, if we put the word toxic in front of their titles, our outlook changes IMMEDIATELY! Toxic Family member, Toxic long-time friend, Toxic co-worker, Toxic significant other... That changes things a little bit, doesn't it? Know that it is alright to remove any and all toxicity you may be dealing with. Most times, a reason beyond no longer wanting to deal with it, isn't necessary. 

3) Safe spaces are IMPORTANT!

This is by far is one of THEE biggest and greatest lessons I've learned yet. I CRAVE safe spaces. A safe environment is critical to my well-being. I have NO problem picking up my pocketbook and my keys and removing myself from the environment where safety has been disrupted. Determine what a safe space/environment looks like to you. It could be protection from something, someone, someplace, energy, conversations, circumstances, situations... ANYTHING! Remember that YOU have the authority to determine what is dangerous to your well-being. 

All in all, these 3 things go hand in hand with each other. When you do one, the rest will fall in place. I urge you to surround yourself with love this holiday season. Be gracious to yourself and others. And love on yourself unapologetically! 

Until next time!

Ashaunda