Happy good Wednesday, Reader 💟

There are very few things that are once and done in life. Most nurturing actions are ongoing practices, and it can feel futile or disappointing in a culture that is heavy on consumerism and selling the “once you have this, everything will be better” illusion.

Deep self care isn’t like that. It’s never done.

It’s best if self-care practices happen on a continuous basis. Just like hydrating, eating, or sleeping are ever-present to-dos — they need to be done as constant maintenance to keep everything functioning well.

When we recognize that having a mindfulness practice helps fulfill a basic universal need (like hydrating, eating, and sleeping), it becomes less hard to lean into. We can all of a sudden manage to find those minutes we need. Excuses seem to leap right out the window. Mindfulness as a practice gets easier when you give it its rightful place at the table.

When I first started meditating and practicing mindfulness, I just really wanted to feel calmer on the inside, and I got very frustrated when the experience wasn’t like what I thought it would be. But after years of showing up and trying new things, I can say without hesitation that it’s a necessity. When I don’t make time for it, my days take a turn down some rough terrain — just like I might get hangry when I haven’t eaten or too easily slide into my grump pants on too little sleep.

I remind you of this today because mindfulness is one thing that fits any budget and lifestyle, and we can all make ourselves richer by indulging. This is a grand time to lean into things that help you feel steady in a rocky world and to show yourself how much you’re able and capable of caring for you.

Remember that you don’t need extra time or fancy equipment. All you need is commitment to yourself to keep trying and to keep showing up.

With much goodwill and hope,

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Zenful Mindings LLC is a proud queer-owned, woman-owned business.