If you have read any of my previous insights, or attended a class with me, you have likely heard me say that “self-care” is a priority, not a luxury. And this is true.

Recently, I heard it said that self-care can be a form of devotion. This deeply resonated with me. The Cambridge Dictionary defines devotion as:

• loyalty and love or care for someone or something
• support and affection

How beautiful is that? To offer loyalty, love, and support to ourselves.

It can be easy to show up for others—but can we begin to devote that same time and care to ourselves?

As I wrote in a previous insight, Peace Within Creates Peace Without. What if, by devoting love within, we begin to create love without? We often hear that we cannot truly find love in another until we discover it within ourselves.

To me, loving myself means finding small moments throughout the day that are devoted just to me. It can be as simple as enjoying a warm cup of cacao, writing in my journal (intentions and gratitudes), or stepping into a personal Qigong or Tai Chi practice.

Lately, one of my favorite rituals has been getting ready for bed, turning off the overhead light, and reading my current book with a small clip-light. Some nights it’s 10 minutes, others 20 or even 30. I’ve also begun placing my phone in another room on “do not disturb” from 9pm until 7am.

And I notice—my self-care is always changing. It looks different than it did a year ago. I am learning to flow with each day, each moment, as it arises.

For some, self-care devotion may look like gardening—waking early, placing your hands into Mother Earth, feeling the soil, and witnessing something grow.

Do you know what yours is?

Can you carve out 5, 10, or 20 minutes a day just for you? Perhaps it’s rising before the rest of your household to enjoy quiet alone time. Or taking an early morning walk, listening to the songs of the birds.

I would love to hear what you feel called to devote to your own self-care. Please share in the comments below—you may inspire someone else.

Isn’t that part of why we are here? To share our love with one another.

Thank you for being here, and for taking the time to read this.