You’ve probably heard the term “self-care” used a lot lately. It’s become a popular buzzword in the media and in personal development circles. But do you know why self-care matters?
As a mother, it might be hard to take the time for yourself to get into it though. I know I have this problem. The kids needs feeding, or need to run around outside, or you have a mountain of dishes or laundry to do. And, you still may be unclear on what it means.
While the concept does involve taking care of yourself, it actually goes much deeper. Because like in the pre-flight safety lecture, where they tell you “You need to take care of your own oxygen mask before putting one on your child” you need to take care of yourself before you can take care of anyone else. Read on to learn what self-care is, why it matters and how to get started doing it.
About Self-Care
Self-care covers a lot of areas with regard to caring for yourself. It involves nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.
It focuses on building yourself up so that your internal resources don’t become depleted.
Essentially, self-care is being as good to yourself as you would be to someone you care about. It requires you to show yourself some compassion and encourages you to be vulnerable with others, asking for help when you need it.
Asking for help can be something so simple as asking a family member or telling the kids’ dad to take the kids off your hands for a couple of hours so you can take a bubble bath without the kids banging on the door to the bathroom, asking for snacks. Or be able to hit up that yoga class you have been dying to try.
I know the times I get to go to the bathroom in private is worth gold. My kids have no boundaries… At all. Even when their father is at home and awake (he works nights), they come to me to ask questions, get fed, or just talk. If I am on the toilet even better.
What doesn’t fall under the umbrella of self-care are self-destructive coping mechanisms such as using drugs, drinking, gambling, or retail therapy. These things only make you feel good in the short term. And that is just a waste of time and energy. We are aiming for long-term benefits here.
Why Self-Care Matters
There are lots of benefits to practicing self-care. Embracing this concept can be difficult for those who’ve always placed emphasis on the welfare of others.
However, giving all your energy to those around you without filling your own energy reserves back up leaves you depleted and empty. That’s no way to live.
Instead, spending time and effort on yourself rejuvenates and energizes you. Taking time to indulge in your own interests demonstrates your worth, leading to improved self-esteem and a more positive outlook on the world.
It teaches you a lot about yourself and provides you with insight into what you need to be the best version of yourself. Self-care helps you better cope with stress and to prioritize what’s important to you.
You’ll be better able to take care of others when you also take time to meet your own needs. “Put your own oxygen mask on before helping anyone else with theirs.”
Examples of Self-Care
There are countless ways to add self-care to your routine. And if you schedule them into your day or week, you have a better chance of actually take the time to get it done. To make it matter.
The key is to choose activities that are most enjoyable to you and provide you with the most benefits.
Going for a walk in nature is great for those who enjoy the outdoors. Other forms of exercise like yoga, running, or going to the gym work well, too. It all depends on who you are as a person.
Spending time with friends can be rejuvenating, but so can saying no. Allowing yourself to decline invitations or favors when you’re feeling run-down is a big part of caring for yourself.
Treating yourself to a favorite, affordable indulgence like a movie, manicure, or ice cream cone are all good examples. As is taking a bath or meditating.
These are just a few of the ways you can easily incorporate self-care into your life.
Now you know what self-care is and what it’s important. You’ve also got some ideas of how to get started, so you’re well on your way to adding this useful practice to your life.