“The Book of Self-Care: Remedies for Healing Mind, Body, and Soul” by Mary Beth Janssen

In “The Book of Self-Care: Remedies for Healing Mind, Body, and Soul,” Mary Beth Janssen invites us to become spiritual warriors. Because simple daily practices, breathing, and mindfulness are good remedies for what ails us, she hopes that we may learn to understand the healing capacity we each possess within us. The challenge is to simply begin, to be present with yourself. The insight, encouragement and exercises outlined in “The Book of Self-Care” can help you do just that.

Connecting with your inner spirit merely means making a connection with yourself. Mastering this concept can unlock the key to wellness for those of us who are burdened by outside circumstances or relationships. Janssen describes how burdens create stress in our minds, negatively affect our physical bodies and ultimately permeate our soul. This book may also be helpful for caregivers or those grieving, who may not be attending to their own health or daily needs.

Mindfulness Is the Key

Mindfulness is about being fully present in each moment. According to Janssen, it is the most critical component of self-care:

“If you are fully present as each moment unfolds, your life changes dramatically, with the potential to become vibrant and electrifying beyond compare. You see the fullness of what is, rather than what’s lacking – engendering a profound sense of gratitude. Being fully present brings with it the knowledge required to make good choices during stressful situations.”

Janssen says, “Meditation allows the brain and the body to calm down enough to work together.”

Meditation is the best way we can train our brain to be mindful of itself. Janssen offers several simple exercises to get you started, from breathing to mantras. She encourages the reader with the knowledge that meditation can happen wherever we are, at any time and in any way we choose. She also gently reminds us, “No matter where, when, why, or how you meditate, you should know that there is no wrong way to do it.” Practice is key. Just show up. Try. And try again.

“The Book of Self-Care: Remedies for Healing Mind, Body, and Soul” is chock full of other mini-rituals, simple ideas and lots of inspiration. This includes various non-secular concepts that can become an integral part of a self-care regimen for willing souls. Chakras, or energy centers in the body, can be brought into balance. Sensory stimulation may enhance your mindfulness. Yoga and movement can also assist us in being present. If these notions are new to you, this book is sure to pique your curiosity.

So go on. Be mindful! Create something beautiful, assemble a vision board, construct a small altar, write in a journal, meditate on the moon or celebrate the season. Whatever you decide…set your intention, be present and do it. It just might make you feel good!