self care Archives

Why It’s Better to Set Boundaries than Give Ultimatums

July 7, 2025 / By Nina Amir / Leave a Comment

Setting boundaries is considered an important—if not essential—positive self-care exercise. Yet, some people perceive boundaries as ultimatums or demands with negative consequences. But boundaries and ultimatums are different, and it’s better to set boundaries than give ultimatums. I recall finally gathering the courage to set a few boundaries with my husband. Our marriage was struggling […]

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Advice for Travelers on the Transformational Journey

May 10, 2021 / By Nina Amir / Leave a Comment

Even when you don’t realize change is happening, it is. And, over time, the transformational journey can take an emotional and physical toll. Yes, it’s all good! But be aware that your efforts to change may create a need for self-care. If you take care of yourself and acknowledge your progress, you’ll get to your

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How to Care for Your Longest Relationship

May 6, 2019 / By Nina Amir / Leave a Comment

Have you ever identified which relationship has been your longest one running? In the past, I would have said it was my relationship with my mother, my siblings, or a few of my high school friends. I’ve been married 30 years—that probably qualifies, right? Wrong. These are all incorrect answers. Let me explain. Your Longest

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Tell Yourself You are Wonderful

April 16, 2010 / By Nina Amir / 1 Comment

In the last week or so I’ve received a few messages reminding me to tell myself that I’m wonderful. Do you ever tell yourself how great you are? Just before my birthday, a friend counseled me to look in the mirror often and tell myself how great I am and to acknowledge myself for all

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When You are So Stressed You Don't Have a Minute, Take a Few

March 25, 2010 / By Nina Amir / Leave a Comment

Have you ever had one of those days–or several days–when you feel so busy and stressed that you don’t think you can take a moment to breathe? And the more stressed you get, the worse your day gets? As your stress level goes up, your success rate plummets. Everything just seems to go wrong. Well,

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Second Day of Awe: Sins Against Yourself

September 20, 2009 / By Nina Amir / Leave a Comment

Today, we – I – turn inward to examine a different type of sin: sins committed against ourselves. Have we taken care of our bodies? Have we taken time to rest? Have we allowed ourselves time for friends and for connecting with God? Have we allowed ourselves to enjoy life? Or have we spent all

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My Life Needs a Rainy Season to End the Drought

November 4, 2008 / By Nina Amir / Leave a Comment

The rains came this weekend, washing clean the dust of the summer, the soot from the wildfires and any remaining fear of new fires being kindled. In Northern California, the rainy season starts almost like clockwork on or around Halloween. I find that so amazing…almost miraculous. In the almost seven years I’ve lived

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