Embracing self-acceptance: a path to stronger communities and personal well-being

Sara Cory Isbister

In a world that often imposes unrealistic standards, self-acceptance is crucial for personal well-being and fostering stronger, supportive communities. By prioritising self-care, we can cultivate a ripple effect that benefits people of all ages, nurturing healthier relationships within families, friendships, and local communities. One of the biggest challenges we face is the shame and self-rejection that holds us back from seeking support. The fear of judgment makes it difficult to connect with others. However, by embracing self-acceptance, we can break free from these barriers and open ourselves to new possibilities. It starts with honouring our bodies and recognising their unique needs. Our bodies deserve love and care. By listening to what they tell us through movement, rest, and nourishment, we can cultivate a healthier relationship with ourselves.

Self-acceptance goes beyond personal growth; it creates a ripple effect that benefits families, friends, and communities. When we embrace and support our own needs, we inspire others to do the same. Imagine a world where everyone feels accepted and valued. By being kinder to ourselves, we cultivate more energy to move out of survival mode, no longer running on an empty tank, and enabling us to fulfil our energy needs. This fulfilment allows us to offer more compassion, create more meaningful connections, and foster a sense of belonging and togetherness within our relationships.

Community-based classes and activities are great resources that can help us cultivate self-acceptance and foster a sense of belonging. For example, mindful forms of movement like yoga, Feldenkrais and dance classes provide a space where individuals can explore their bodies, minds, and emotions without judgment. These practices encourage self-compassion and self-awareness, helping participants develop a deeper understanding and acceptance of themselves.

Community art workshops also play a significant role in cultivating self-acceptance. These workshops provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for individuals to explore their creativity and express themselves through various art forms, such as painting, sculpture, or photography. Through the process of creating art, participants learn to appreciate their own unique perspectives and talents, fostering a sense of self-acceptance.

Furthermore, support groups and counselling services offered within local communities can provide valuable resources for individuals seeking self-support. These groups create a supportive network where individuals can share their experiences, struggles, and triumphs, knowing that they are not alone in their journey. By connecting with others who have similar experiences, individuals can find solace, understanding, and encouragement on their path towards self-acceptance. Whether through yoga, dance, art workshops, or support groups, these community spaces allow us to explore and embrace our true selves. By actively engaging in these activities, we contribute to the development of stronger and more supportive communities, where self-acceptance is celebrated, and individuals are embraced for who they truly are.

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Work is well underway to upgrade one of Featherston’s wastewater pump stations that will add extra capacity and resilience to the network.

The work is taking place along Revans Street (State Highway 53), where it intersects with Waite and Donald Streets. It is expected to wrap up in September

This project will allow wastewater to be pumped more efficiently away from the eastern side of Featherston, where there have been wastewater overflows in the past

It includes an upgrade of the ageing pump station and a renewal of the “rising main”, that connects the pump station to the wastewater gravity-controlled mains An underground storage tank will provide much greater resilience in the event of a major event such as an earthquake or power outage

Wellington Water is in charge of the project and says the upgrade will have no direct impact on the drinking water network or the treatment plant

If you are a dog owner, by now you should have received a form for next year ’ s dog registrations, either by email or post.

If you haven’t received your form or you are a new dog owner, please call us to find out about registering your dog(s) this year.

Payments can be made via our Martinborough Council offices, Greytown and Featherston libraries or online via our website Please pay by July 31 or a penalty applies

Consultation is now open for our Local Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy and Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy reviews Consultation closes on 10 July 2023 We are also seeking feedback on a draft speed management plan and speed review Consultation closes on 23 July at 5pm For details on all these matters, please see our website page under "consultations" at swdc.govt.nz

Contact

06 swdc.govt.nz/get-it-sorted govt nz swdc.govt.nz