Many of us struggle with self love, self care and satisfying our own needs, often feeling guilty and confusing self care for being selfish. Perhaps we believe that our needs are not as important as others. Or, perhaps we have been told by others that when we advocate for ourselves we are being selfish.
But self care isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.
We serve and care for others on a regular basis in our personal and professional lives, so it’s important that we refuel and re-energize ourselves to avoid feeling depleted, resentful, angry and frustrated. Including self care into your daily/weekly/monthly routine helps dissipate those negative feelings and allows for a more peaceful and balanced existence.
Versions of self care will be different for each of us, and they will change with time and circumstances. Introverts typically require quiet and alone time to replenish their energy, while extroverts are energized by large group events and being in the company of others. Are you an introvert, extrovert, or a combination of both?
Take a moment to notice your own energy level right now—do you feel depleted, resentful, angry, or off balance? Have you been running on empty, continually giving of yourself to others whether it be work or family? Do you feel like there is never enough time in the day for your own needs? Or have you taken time for yourself so that you feel calm and relaxed in your daily activities?
Self care is meant to replenish and refuel so that we can participate in our daily life with positivity, excitement and gratitude. Self care is an act of self love that benefits both you and the people in your life.
Self care possibilities:
- Quiet time alone with a book or to journal.
- A spa day.
- Listening to music that brings you peace and joy.
- Taking a walk outside, breathing in the fresh air, and enjoying the beauty of nature.
- Saying “NO” to a potential obligation that doesn’t interest you (you don’t need to explain why you are unavailable).
- Taking time away from your partner (or family) to be with friends for a night out or a weekend getaway.
- Creating regular consistent date nights with your partner.
- A spontaneous road trip.
- Remembering to drink the right amount of water.
- A 15 min break in your work day to close your eyes, breathe, and regroup.
What kind of self care is necessary for your well-being?
Currently, my self care consists of daily meditation, listening to my spiritual music, doing my physical therapy, icing my shoulder, journaling, and watching a ridiculous amount of TV. As one of my sisters recently told me, I now “have a PhD in Netflix!” Apparently, getting a PhD in Netflix is amazing self care!
Always with love,
Heather