It’s gift-giving season, yes? And today is a gift. You know — the present. Today, then, give yourself a gift.

You will know what this gift is that you need if you just stop for a few minutes and think about it. It may be a massage during a time when you feel you can’t possibly squeeze one more thing in. It may be staying in bed an extra hour with a pile of magazines that have piled up on your bed stand. It may be fishing in a river, being one with the world around you. It may be just sitting on the couch and staring at the ceiling. It may be calling a friend and sharing stories.

Your health depends on you taking the time to take care of yourself. Schedule it. Pretend you are your best friend. Think up something extra special to do for your best friend just because you love her. Now, substitute yourself into that best friend and do something extra special for yourself just because you love you.

Talk nicely to yourself. Think nicely about yourself. Pat yourself on the back for all you do for all those around you, for all you put up with to make others happy, for all the accomplishments you have made, are making, and will make to make this planet a better place for everybody.

There will always be a long list of things to do and it will always be longer in December. Use this present moment to give yourself what you need. When you do, you will keep yourself healthy, and be better equipped to help all those who need you.