What is Self-Care?
Just like it sounds, self-care means taking care of yourself…with a focus. It means being intentional about listening to your body and mind, then choosing to do something that makes you feel soothed, rejuvenated, or peaceful.
As simple as that sounds, our culture doesn’t reward self-care. We are told that being “crazy busy” is a badge of honor. Running constantly between work, errands, family, and school is a normal day. Social media makes it look like everyone is racing through life with ease and making great things happen. Even though technology keeps us more connected, people end up feeling lonelier and unable to relax. Do you feel the pressure? We all do.
As simple as that sounds, our culture doesn’t reward self-care. We are told that being “crazy busy” is a badge of honor. Running constantly between work, errands, family, and school is a normal day. Social media makes it look like everyone is racing through life with ease and making great things happen. Even though technology keeps us more connected, people end up feeling lonelier and unable to relax. Do you feel the pressure? We all do.
Self-Care is Unique to You
You are a complex and unique person. There is no “one self-care approach” that suits everyone – one size does not fit all. To find your self-care routine, you will need to explore your needs, your likes, and what makes you feel better. You’ll slow down and listen to your body and your mind. The idea is to find something you can practice regularly that will give you positive energy in your tank and calm the stress.
Self-care is not selfish or self-centered. It’s giving to yourself so you can give to others. Taking time to give yourself a break now means you will have more to give later. The goal of self-care is to create a practice that improves your life and nourishes you.
At first, you may have to remind yourself that you are worth it. You may have to set it on your calendar and talk yourself into it. But in time, self-care will become part of your day and you’ll see it pay off.
Investment in Yourself...It Doesn't Have to Cost Anything
You might think of a spa day or a pedicure when you hear about self-care. And those are great ideas. The goal is whatever sounds like a relaxing and replenishing experience. But it doesn’t have to be an expensive weekend away at a yoga retreat. You can choose self-care options that suit your lifestyle and your needs:
Start Small. First, consider your day. Where can you take a moment for yourself? Even a small one:
- Can you step outside to take some deep breaths as a break from work or kids?
- Can you set a small chime on your phone to practice mindfulness or prayer a few times each day?
- Can you stop scrolling on your phone and pick up a new book instead?
Practicing a small activity for just a few minutes can help you reset and settle your thoughts. This will lead you to think about bigger things you can do for yourself — like take a long walk, hit the gym, invest in a new hobby, or shop for healthy foods. Small steps will lead the way to greater moments and allow you to assess each step you’re taking. Listen to your thoughts and see if the self-care activity feeds your needs. If it doesn’t, try something new. Keep investing in your needs to keep it fresh and fulfilling. One idea will lead to another.
Enjoy It. The goal is to recharge and set yourself up for success. With our schedules and demands, we are in survival mode most days. Our mental, physical, and spiritual health rarely become a priority until something bad happens. So, consider self-care today. Take initiative to listen to yourself now and make positive changes. And have fun! Explore things you love and do what feels good. It can mean going outside, doing yoga, connecting with a friend, or taking a bubble bath. You choose the way to restore your energy. You don’t have to feel guilty about taking the time for yourself. That time you invest in yourself now will make you feel like a restored person who has more to give. Fill up your tank and love yourself. Then you can love others better.
Contact the True Relationships Team to Learn More
Taking care of ourselves might sound easy. But how often do we stop and think about what we need to feel soothed or valuable? Daily stress can make us forget that our mental, physical, and spiritual health are a valuable combination. If you are ready to make your self-care needs a priority, we are here to help you find those areas and engage them for better health and better relationships. Call us to find out more.
Additional sources:
Lawler, Moira. “What Is Self-Care and Why Is It So Important for Your Health?” EverydayHealth.com. April 5, 2020
