One of the most important self care activities is to protect your energy.  My grandmother gave me a Gargoyle when I graduated from college.  She told me to keep it with me to protect me from evil spirits.  Well, it is looking at me now as I type this blog.  Definitely a protector of sorts.  

How do you protect your personal energy?  

• Boundaries.  You must set appropriate boundaries and enforce them so that others don't take advantage of you.  It also helps others around you be strong and independent.
• Self talk.  You must have a positive internal dialogue to guard against the negative seeping in and planting itself.  You should practice this as needed moment to moment.
• Trust your gut.  If someone is taking energy from you ~ avoid them.  You need to pay attention to how your body feels when you enter a space.  You are responsible for safe guarding your space.
• Attract positive energy.  You attract energy by giving to the world.  What you give, you receive.  If you can't say something nice, say nothing at all.  Move and meditate to restore your positive energy.  Even listening to gossip can ZAP you.  
• Pay attention to your circle.  The 5 people you spend the most time with have a huge impact on your success in managing your energy.  Do not hang out with people who complain, play the victim or share negative energy in any way.   My mom used to say, "don't hang out with smokers if you don't want to smoke."  
• Never stop learning and growing.  Read, experience, and live on purpose.  DO things that increase your value as an individual.  Don't get stuck in a rut and maintain something just because you "have always done it that way".  Dare to do something different.  Explore the possibilities.
• Feed your soul.  Spend time with people who challenge you and nurture your soul.   Authentic and genuine people may not always say what you want to hear but they will lead you to what you need to see/hear.  
• Be present.  Live in the here and now.  You can't change yesterday or tomorrow.