When you think of the phrase “self care”, what comes to mind? Do you picture yourself lifting weights at the gym? Or soaking in a mud bath at your nearest spa? The idea of self care is not going to be the same for everyone because we all have different interests. Regardless of what it looks like, self-care is important. This becomes apparent as we get older and obtain more responsibilities. There’s nothing worse than feeling like your being stretched too thin from work, school, children, friends, etc. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. In order to become a version of yourself that you can appreciate, you must learn to put yourself first and not feel bad about it.
Self Care Is Not Selfish
Putting yourself first is easier said than done. Majority of us might feel bad when turning down an invitation in exchange for a night to themselves. However, self care doesn’t make you selfish. Rather, your success in many aspects of life could be improved when you start pouring into yourself. Its so easy to get lost in everyone else’s problems while putting your needs on the back shelf. Then, before you know it, years go by and you can’t even remember what its like to have a hobby. So many of us lose our identities when change and new responsibilities come into our lives. Its essential to not let these things make you a shell of the person you once were. What parts of your life leave you feeling drained? Are there any friends or family members that leave you feeling emotionally exhausted? Pleasing everyone around you is not worth your mental and emotional health. Create boundaries, put your needs first, and don’t apologize for it!
Self Care Doesn’t Have to be Expensive
Self care can involve biweekly trips to the spa, hair and nail appointments, waxing, skin care products, etc. As amazing as it is, self care can get expensive!! Moreover, financial situations can change, making these things seem unattainable. Taking time to yourself to paint your own nails, or making your own body scrubs and face masks can be relaxing. Coordinating a ladies night in with your close friends could be a great opportunity to unwind with people that you love. Light some candles throughout your house, play music, pour yourself a glass of wine, make yourself a fancy dinner. In other words, you can be good to yourself at home! And you don’t have to break the bank to do the things you enjoy. However, I do believe its important to have funds set aside specifically for your self care (if possible). For example, you may not be able to get both your hair and nails done this month. You know that you can get away with doing your own nails, but you can’t slay your hair quite like your stylist. You’re still saving money if you can do certain things at home and leave the more difficult tasks to the professionals. I personally love getting massages, especially because my career as a nurse is physically taxing. Therefore, if possible, I ensure that if I can’t do anything else, I can at least get that massage I’ve been looking forward to.
Know When Its Time To Unplug
Comparison is the thief of joy
President Theodore Roosevelt
I learned this the hard way. Spending hours of your time scrolling through Instagram is a sure fire way to leave you feeling dissatisfied. Although this is not readily apparent, self care greatly influenced by social media. You could be having a perfectly good day until you see someone online who’s living their best life on some exotic island. All of a sudden, you’re upset that your stuck at home. As humans, we tend to compare ourselves to others without even thinking about it. Constantly comparing yourself to everyone can lead to depression. If you find yourself spending hours on your phone wishing you had someone else’s life, its time to unplug.
Moreover, the current events going on in the world are sad and overwhelming. Every time you go online, there is news about new covid-19 cases, violence, lock-downs, etc. Being overloaded with the sad events going on in the world can be debilitating for your mental health. Its okay to remove yourself. Self care and mental health go hand in hand. Turn off the news, put your phone away, and refocus on YOU.
