A word on self-care

Alright, “self-care”. The phrase we hear preached all day, every day within this new wave of mental health awareness in our society. But what is it really… 

According to the Oxford dictionary, self-care is “the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health”.  Seems simple enough, right? With my patients, I tend to begin implementing self-care practices by first determining where your health is being affected by the lack of self-care. 

• Are you sleeping? 

• What moments in your life are currently bringing you joy? 

• How high is your stress? 

• What tools are you currently utilizing to manage stress in your life?

• Are worrisome thoughts always circulating in your mind? 

• Do you feel directionless? 

• Do you have moments of peace?

• Are you connected with nature?

• What is your sense of community? Do you feel connected with others?

• How is your motivation?

• What is your relationship with food? Your body?

• How is your spiritual health?

• How often do you move your body?

• What is filling your cup?

• How well do you know yourself? 

• What is your relationship with yourself? 

We’ll discuss ways to manage all of these concerns on this blog, but let’s start with determining how we begin to address self-care. Habit building is simply no easy feat. We as a society love to do a 180 on January 1st and set lofty goals around our own capabilities. Did I exercise at all this year? No, but this next year I definitely believe I could run 4 miles a day. If that works for you - more power to you.

For those of us who aren’t superheroes, I think it’s easier to start with smaller steps. Pairing a new self-care habit with something you already do can be a great way to start. Maybe you have a 30 minute commute, an established bedtime routine, or a morning walk. Can we shift that walk into a mindfulness walk or add some positive mantras? Can we incorporate a peaceful cup of tea, a journaling routine, or a meditation into your bedtime routine? What if you sang your favorite song each morning on the way to work or listened to an audiobook you connect with? 

Begin today by reflecting on where you could maybe benefit from a little more support. On this blog, we will explore together simple steps to begin addressing this lack, leading you to lead a more fulfilling, joyous life!