Why Self-Care?

“The most powerful relationship you will ever have is the relationship with yourself.” – Steve Maraboli

Self-care is an active choice to participate in an activity to gain or sustain ideal overall health. However, there are many definitions of what self-care is. To me, it means taking a moment for myself and recharging mentally. That can mean taking a bath, putting on a face mask, and drinking a glass of wine. Or that can mean getting lost in your thoughts on a walk. It could mean crocheting or knitting even. Whatever it means to you to be able to continue your daily responsibilities. It does not mean you stress about adding one more thing to your ‘to-do’ list. It is not a selfish act either. If you get to a stress breaking point that you need this mental break, it’s time to make yourself a priority and force yourself that time to breathe. 

Taking that moment to step back and focus on yourself can help relax and reset your mind. In doing so, you give your body a chance to breathe. This time allows your hormones to settle back down and leave the stressed out, hectic moment it may stay in otherwise. Energy is held in your gut during the acute stress phase and can cause things to get out of whack. Need to learn how to handle your stress? You can check out my tips here. 

Why I practice self-care

I personally enjoy taking a relaxing bath with a glass of wine and getting lost in my thoughts or simply just scrolling Facebook or Instagram mindlessly. I also enjoy crocheting and getting out into my garage shop and building something. Getting my hands on something and focusing on a project, whether it be a blanket or a wooden sign or large piece, helps me keep my mind clear of any stresses in my life. When I have a project that I am working on, I look forward to it every day and seeing it completed. I take pride in that piece, especially if it is a gift to someone and seeing the joy it brings them. That does not mean your self-care practice is not of value if it doesn’t produce a physical thing. This is what makes you feel fulfilled and happy. It is the balance of your work and responsibilities to something you find delight in.

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Why should you practice self-care?

There are many benefits touted for practicing self-care. They can lead to improved physical health such as reducing your risk for diseases, improve your sleep, boost energy, and more. Mentally, you can reduce your chances of developing mental health issues from extended stress. Emotionally you can enjoy life in general more. You are not focused on the negativity that accompanies those affected by stress long-term. There is also a social health benefit to practicing self-care. People who have strong social ties generally have lower mortality rates. Spiritual health can also have an impact on self-care. This can be however you view spirituality, it is not necessarily a religious idea.

What is self-care to you?

If you’re not sure where to start on how to practice self-care, talk to your doctor about where to start. Generally, they will recommend you start with basic items such as exercise, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, drinking water, and cutting the junk food out. But what else can you do to determine the best way for you to take a break mentally? Ask yourself some of the questions listed below to determine what you can do for yourself.

• What do I enjoy most?
• What activities relaxes me?
• When do I feel the most fulfilled?
• Is there anything I do that allows me to feel the tension ease from myself?
• Who gives me hope, strength, and energy? Am I surrounding myself with them vs individuals who feed stress, guilt, and negativity in my life?

How did these answers help you? Did they surprise you? What can you do to focus on yourself with the new year and stick with for the rest of the year? Comment below to share how you plan to practice self-care.

 

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