Friday, February 19

Today is Friday, February 19, 2021. National Caregivers Day honors those who provide compassionate care to others. This special day is 5 years old today.

An inspirational quote by Willie Cobb, “It’s a matter of reminding people of how valuable they are, because they can easily forget.”

February Feelings. While this month can – at times – feel cold in places where it is winter, inside, we can be glowing with kindness. Showing kindness towards yourself and others can be an expression of love.

Find opportunities to be kind to you:

• • • Take a moment to recognize and list wonderful and amazing things about you.
    • Nourish your body with health-promoting foods like protein and vegetables and drink plenty of water.
    • Pamper your body with physical activity that you enjoy.
    • Treat yourself to dedicated time this weekend to do something that brings you joy.
    • Allow yourself enough time to sleep until you feel rested.

Photo by Brian McMahon

Use this Mindfulness Activity to calm your Body and Mind:  

• Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.
• Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale.
  • • Focus your attention on your right great toe. Tap it up and down.
    • Shift your focus to your right elbow and notice where your elbow is.
    • Glide your focus to the center of your chest and breathe in peace and breathe out what you no longer need.
    • Continue to breathe in peace and breathe out what you no longer need, for as long as you like.
    • Smile when you are ready to move forward.

Recharge yourself and share positive energy when you repeat:    

“I am [*Name*]. I am doing what I can. I am open to myself and others, and I belong to a global community. I appreciate myself and others because I have kindness and love in my heart and soul. As I think about those I love and care for, I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. We are all connected. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP