Do any of these statements sound familiar?

I love to do _____ but I've been so busy that I haven't done it for years. 
I want to exercise but I'm too busy driving my kids all over the place.
I have to cancel my adjustment or massage because I'm swamped at work.
I want to relax by doing ____ this weekend, but my spouse wants to do  ______ and we always do what he/she wants to do. 
I'm so busy making my kids healthy meals that I'm left eating microwavable dinners or something else unhealthy. 

I'm here to tell you that you need to stop doing this. You need to put yourself first, and everyone else next. To some people I might sound crazy... how can I put myself first before my children? I get it, but hear me out. 

In order for you to be at your best with your family, friends or at work, you need to take care of yourself. You are no good to anyone if you are tired, sick, in pain or unable to focus. And unfortunately, if you live your life putting everyone else first and do not take the time to take care of yourself and make yourself happy, then guess what eventually happens? Eventually you get tired, sick, in pain or unable to focus! And then how can you be the amazing Mom/Dad/Spouse/Employee/Student that you want to be?

I repeat, YOU CANNOT SERVE FROM AN EMPTY VESSEL!!!

Check out the video I made on this topic, if you need to drive this message home a little bit more:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69vzEUFhyLU

What I recommend everyone do is plan your self care and then stick to your plan. Don't cancel an appointment you have with yourself!! Here are some things you can do for yourself to fill your personal vessel and be your best for your family, friends and at work. 
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1. Book regular adjustments and massages. Take that time for yourself, to relax and to focus on improving your health. 
2. Write a self love letter on the bathroom mirror.
3. Do 3 sets of 10 minute meditation throughout the day. (Morning, Afternoon, Before bed). Add a heat pack to the back of your neck for extra relaxation.
4. Take YOURSELF out on your dream date. 
5. Initiate positive self talk when you feel like things aren't going as planned. "I can get through this" …"I am strong".
6. Create a Focus word that brings you back to a neutral state when you get over-stressed. "Beach" "Chiropractic" "Motivation"
7. Trade in the shower for a bubble bath to treat yourself to some much needed you time.
8. While watching your favorite funny TV show or movie (laughter releases mood boosting endorphins) complete the exercises that Dr. Doni has recommended for you, or exercises you love to do.
9. Spend time on a Sunday prepping healthy lunches for yourself for the week.
10. Find an activity you love to do and schedule yourself to do it regularly. Join an exercise class (maybe check out our kettlebell classes?), a yoga class, join a sports team or go outside and skate or snowshoe. 
11. Spend at least 15 minutes per day doing something you love like reading, colouring, painting, reading poetry, playing a musical instrument or just daydreaming.
12. Give yourself a personal pedicure or manicure. 
13. Go outside for a walk. 
The list could go on and on. The point is to personalize it, and then do it! Your life, your family, and your health are worth it. Don't wait until it is too late to start taking care of yourself. 

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