What is self-care?
Toffler Niemuth of Pick The Brain defines it this way: “Self-care is developing the awareness of, and then honoring the rituals and practices that ensure you’re looking after, your total well-being every single day. It includes habits that make you healthier, happier, and help you to feel more connected.”
Often times on airplanes, one of the instructions the flight attendants will give, is in the case of an emergency, put your oxygen mask on first before helping someone else with theirs. This is a great example of the concept of self-care. If we fail to take care of ourselves, we will not be able to best serve our families or tend to our other responsibilities. Sometimes our immediate response is to do all we can for those around us. Do you know anyone who says yes to everything? Too often these people end up burning out and being forced to relax.
Self-care includes things like eating nutritious foods most of the time, getting enough sleep, taking time to do things you enjoy, relaxation, natural remedies, meditation and/or prayer, worship, self-reflection, reflecting on your thoughts and feelings, deep breathing, and allowing yourself to have fun!
Do I Need Self-Care?
When my wife and I were a young couple, we pinched and saved every extra penny. We didn’t allow ourselves to spend anything on ourselves. So what happened? We ended up going out one day and splurging! We spent tons of money we didn’t have. Why did we do this? Because we felt restricted and deprived for so long that our frustrations exploded! We now realize the benefit and necessity of allowing ourselves some spending money each month because we know if we don’t we will end up spending it one way or another.
This example is also how self-care works. We can so easily push ourselves too hard, but it will catch up with us. What if instead, we gave ourselves permission to allow time to rest, relax, and have some fun? Research has shown this can actually end up making you more productive! You will have more energy and an increased ability to focus.
Why Should I Care About Self-Care?
So what are the 7 reasons why self-care should be in your New Year’s plan?
- You will be able to accomplish more.
- You will feel more rested and focused.
- You will have peace of mind that you are doing what you know you’re supposed to be doing.
- Slowing down will allow you to have a new perspective on all aspects of life.
- Your family and work will recognize the benefits.
- All other New Year’s goals will feel more attainable when you are the best you can be.
- God requires it!
That’s right! Right there in the 10 Commandments, God provides an outline for self-care. When he declares a Sabbath day, He was reminding us that even He took a day of rest after He created the world. This was an example for us to follow. I personally believe in and have tested the benefits of weekly Sabbaths, but also daily – even hourly breaks. A good self-care regimen is essential for your mental health, and your mental health is essential for your overall health.
Maybe professional counseling needs to be a part of your self-care regimen. If so,that is where Crosswinds comes in. We can meet with you in our local offices, or even online if needed. Life can be demanding, but always remember that you are in charge.
You set your own boundaries. If you start with self-care, you will see the benefits trickle down to every area of your life. Attending a coaching or therapy session weekly or every other week can be a form of self-care. Let us know if we can help you work out your plan!