Copyright (c) 2007 Sam Benton

Pick a lifestyle any lifestyle, go ahead, I won't peek! Without knowing who you are or where you live and without knowing another single fact about you, I'm prepared to wager that for you, there just aren't enough hours in the day, whatever your circumstances are.

Again, I'll wager that you have too much to do and not nearly enough time to do it in. OK, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that one out because I know I've chosen a very popular theme, one that affects, well… almost everyone.

Between work commitments and family commitments, it's incredibly easy to lose yourself and your own identity in the pursuit of looking after others.

Allow yourself to imagine, just for a minute, that you pay the same attention to your own needs that you do for others. If you really gave this a go, you would quickly see a brighter picture. You may not be immediately aware of the benefits, but trust me, setting aside a little time for yourself has benefits you just wouldn't believe.

No excuse is needed to take care of YOU, the most important person in your life. The change doesn't have to be radical, start small and begin with something as simple as setting aside some time just for you. If your life has been one long exercise in looking after everyone else's needs, then even spending some quiet time alone will carry some guilt, but stay focused and remember, all you are trying to do is redress the balance.

Consider something totally new, consider a manicure or a pedicure, or do yourself a huge favour and consider having a massage. Whatever you decide, just turn a little attention back to you. If having a massage seems too much of a luxury, think again. Massage and massage therapy is no longer an activity reserved for the wealthy and the benefits of massage go way beyond the physical.

If the thought of a full body massage scares the life out of you, start with the most uplifting and rewarding massage of all, a facial. A facial massage if something you could do for yourself, with your own hands in the comfort and privacy of your own home, and as a taste of what is possible, it shouldn't be too difficult to justify. (to yourself!)

Your hands are a masterpiece of design and they're an evolutionary triumph. It would be a shame not to use them. Your own hands have an intimate knowledge of the face that you display to the world.

For most of us, putting ourselves first is an unthinkable luxury which is an idea that is quickly discarded. My advice is not to be too hasty. Don't beat yourself for putting yourself first. It'll put you in a much better position to help and coach others.

Have a good think about massage though because if you look great there's more than a good chance that you'll feel great too and from there, the possibilities are endless.

In the meantime I wish you continued outstanding health.

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