It's all about "Me Movement"

By: Stephanie Horton

Motion is deep within me

I move with the rails

With the planes

I move with the rising steps to see

The next level come into view

And feel its ecstasy

-Scott Mutter

I couldn't agree more with Rebecca Scritchfield's "Me Movement." It's focused on keeping us all happy and healthy during this holiday season - but I am pledging to keep it going throughout every season of life. If you're like me, it's easy to let yourself disappear in someone or something other than yourself...You become passionate about a cause and hold on to that cause like it's your last breath - you squeeze it like a boa constrictor - until finally, you realize it's actually what is causing the suffocation. When you do this, you lose sight of who you truly are - and this can suck the happy right out of you. It's imperative to keep sight of what's important to you and to put effort into these things, but the most crucial part about doing this is making sure you don't forget about yourself. With that being said, I couldn't be happier to join Rebecca's cause and share some of my own goals.

Here's the pledge...

For my health and wellness, I want to put myself first this holiday season. This year will be different. I am going to take care of myself during this busy (sometimes hectic) time. If that means asking for help, saying “no”, or scheduling “down time,” I will do it. I’m done being over-committed.

• I pledge to remember how good it feels when I’m taking care of myself. And when I feel good, I am able to take better care of those I love.
• I pledge to keep in mind that social situations are about the companionship, as much as the delicious food and drinks. I want to enjoy foods that look and taste good while respecting my body’s “fullness” and “satisfied” signals. I won’t judge myself if I ate “too much” of the holiday foods that don’t come around that often.
• I pledge to stay in tune with what my body needs, whether that’s food, rest, exercise, or sleep.

My well-being is my priority. The goals below reflect the healthiest ways I know how to meet my own needs.

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What are three things you can do to make sure your wellness needs are met this holiday season? You may want to choose one goal for each of these areas: nutrition, exercise and stress management. Or maybe you want to focus on just one or two areas. These goals are meant to be personal for you! Hang this pledge somewhere you will see it on a daily basis as a reminder of your commitment to honoring your health.

Goal 1: I will never feel guilty or stress out about doing things that make me happy.

Goal 2: I will exercise my body and my mind every day in order to strengthen both.

Goal 3: I will make the time to get organized in my apartment, my finances, and my books/notes from the last 2 and 1/2 years of school.

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Signature Stephanie Horton

Date: 11/16/10

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Share your pledge with us! What are the ways you personally create happiness in your own life? What makes you feel strong and healthy?