Years ago, when my cat Duchess was in her final days, she taught me a lesson I would carry with me forever.
Duchess had advanced cancer that had spread into her lungs, and she would struggle to breathe. I would sit beside her, pouring all my love and energy healing into her, desperate to ease her discomfort. But time and again, she would insist that I do energy work for myself first.
It wasn't just a gentle nudge—it was an unrelenting demand. She wouldn't settle until I eased into self-healing. And the moment I did, something extraordinary happened—her breathing would ease, her body would soften, and she would drift into rest.
Duchess knew something I had yet to fully understand: Healing begins with us.
As caregivers, healers, and animal lovers, we give so much of ourselves. But the truth is, we can only give our best when we are whole, nourished, and held in our own love.
So, let me ask you:
How are you loving yourself today?
A Self-Love Quote to Carry With You
"Love yourself first, and everything else falls into line." - Lucille Ball
Let this sink in. You deserve your own kindness, just as much as the animals you care for.
Simple Ways to Cultivate Self-Care
1️⃣ Take 5 minutes today for something just for you. Sit with a cup of tea, watch the sunrise, and breathe deeply. Let it be your moment.
2️⃣ Place your hands over your heart and whisper this affirmation:
"I choose to treat myself with the same kindness I show my animals."
3️⃣ Ask yourself: What small act of care can I offer myself today? And then do it.
February's Healing Circle: A Space to Replenish
This month's New Moon Healing Circle is all about Heart-Centered Healing for You and Your Animals. If you've been feeling stretched thin, this is your time to receive.
🕯 Join the circle on Eventbrite:
On a Lighter Note: Cats, Calendars & A Special Day
February 22nd is Nyan Nyan Nyan Day—Japan's playful way of celebrating cats!
The date is chosen because the number "2" is pronounced as "ni" in Japanese, which sounds similar to the sound a cat makes: "nyan." When written as 2/22, it resembles "nyan nyan nyan," the Japanese onomatopoeia for a cat's meow repeated three times.
Did you know that cats have a special place in Japanese culture? The famous maneki-neko (beckoning cat) is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Call it synchronicity. 22nd of February is also the day I became a certified Animal Reiki Teacher, and it is also my mother's anniversary. A day that holds many emotions, memories, and love.
If you haven't yet, grab your Cat Celebration Days Calendar here—it's filled with quirky, fun, and heartfelt cat holidays from around the world!
📅 Download the calendar
Sending You Love
As this month unfolds, I hope you find moments of peace, joy, and deep self-acceptance. Just as Duchess reminded me, may you remember: Your well-being matters, too.
With love and gratitude,
Indrani (Idee)