I like to conclude my yoga classes on an inspiring reading or a quote. Yesterday, I chose Thich Naht Hanh words on Empathy. Not the best idea of the week.
The reading did not really do the trick with my SAHM students. A friend of mine, usually pretty shy, asked “how about compassion for ourselves? So exhausting to constantly practice empathy. We embody empathy, for our children, for our busy husband, for basically everyone. At least when we have an “official” job, we have a boss who acknowleges the work done once a year. Someone who tells us we did great, encourages us and even gives us a bonus . Sometimes I wonder if there is someone who would see me as this lettuce 🙂 “.
What a brilliant point she has made. Compassion for oneself is easy to say.. but in practice?
No matter how many activities and volunteering one can do, a SAHM will always be considered as the one who is not working. Whose only duty therefore is to take care of .. everything! Don’t get me wrong, I do feel privileged and I know my students do too. It’s just that from time to time, a kind word, an encouragement, can have such a positive impact.
I had to see the physio last week to fix my cervical spine. After the lecturing part “you should have come a long time ago. It’s gonna take a while to fix. blablabla..“, he started working on my muscles. He felt how tense I was, and said those 3 words that brought tears to my eyes ” you are brave“.
I felt totally ridiculous for this feeling and did not know what to say. His words felt so good to hear though, and they actually changed my entire day.
While I was sharing this little story with a great friend of mine over lunch, she simply smiled and confirmed “It’s true. You are brave; but also cool; and fun; and inspiring. It always feel so great to be around you“.
There was no fishing for compliments there, I just wanted to share the feeling. But again, her words were so heartwarming. Heart-warming, really.
When I discover something remarkable, I always need to share it with the world. So I have decided to spread the great vibes by complimenting someone any time I can. The “warmth feeling” works both ways: it not only brighten their day, but also makes me all warm and fuzzy inside.
Try it! Everyone needs to feel appreciated so if you appreciate someone, don’t keep it a secret.
Estelea's Blog 
This is so true. Even just a simple “you’re doing well” can sustain you and last a long way. xx
Oh yes! And I noticed that we are so not used to compliments that we tend to belittle ourselves when we receive some . We need to change that too. Happy Day to you dear, and you’re doing more then well
Xxx
Good reminders! I try to remember to do this for others, but am too darn hard on myself.
Reblogged this on Inner Warrior Ancient Wisdom and commented:
Great article! Thank you for sharing!