Thoughts on Self-Care
Self-care is a term that is being thrown around a lot these days. I had a conversation with friends a few days ago and I was surprised by the way each of us perceived this word differently! Our discussion inspired me to get clear on what I believe self-care means so that I can explain it better to you.
First, let me get clear on what self-care is NOT.
Self-Care is NOT…
Spending tons of money to pamper yourself at fancy spas.
A luxury that is only available to the wealthy and privileged.
“Fixing” yourself. Because you are not broken. This one has taken me most of my life to figure out.
An admission of weakness or an inability to deal with "adulting".
Selfish.
Always fun. It means sometimes doing things you might not feel like doing.
One size fits all… As with our diet, what works for one person may not for another.
Ignoring or discounting our relationships and connection with others.
Self-Care IS...Permission:
To recognize that, as humans, we have needs. To take care of yourself first. To slow down. To not be perfect all the time. To say NO.
Self-Care IS...Practice:
Figuring out what you need to feel more balanced, healthy, and whole and then making it a regular part of your life. Even when you might not feel like it at the moment...Getting up an hour earlier to meditate, following a budget, even flossing your teeth takes dedication and commitment!
Self-Care IS...Play:
Finding what brings you balance and peace to increase the amount of joy you experience in life. It is learning what lights you up. It is spending time with yourself and enjoying your own company.
Self-Care IS...Passion:
Fostering love and kindness toward yourself, allowing you to be more loving toward others. Learning to love your perfectly imperfect self, your whole self, the dark and the light parts.
Self-Care IS...Possibility:
To step into your own worth. To show the universe and yourself that you are worthy. To be the best version of yourself. To be more creative, more present, more healthy.