THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-CARE

The practice of "self-care" is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy relationship with yourself and EVERYONE around you. Self-care can take on many forms but no matter the form, the focus is on you and what gives your soul room to breathe.

It even encourages us in the bible to maintain this practice...‘You must love your friend in the same way you love yourself.’ Matthew 22:39 Passion Translation

Many of us are care takers for our loved ones (be they old or young) and are used to taking on too many responsibilities which turns into stress. You are living in a selfless manner by committing yourself to the endless care and support of someone else.

However, you NEED to take the time to take care of YOU by putting on your oxygen mask first (to borrow a line from airline flight attendants safety speech). Self care is a practice...something you continue working on to achieve. Self care can be as simple as taking a moment to BREATHE a deep, long exhale before moving on to your next task. Allowing yourself a moment to use the restroom, get a glass of water, take a few bites of your meal before responding to your next pressing assignment, or scheduling routine massage appointments, outings by yourself with a good friend... It's prioritizing your needs as equivalent to the needs of the loved one you are caring for. You will find that when your basic needs are met you are more equipped to meet the needs of the those around you.

​

---

What does SELF CARE look like for you?

Jane works to prioritize herself by getting up early in the mornings to journal, pray and exercise before her family wakes up each day. Heather likes to be out in nature, whether it's climbing or walking on the beach. Keith enjoys taking his sports car for a spin on sunny days. No matter how you decide to practice self-care, remember that YOU are a priority! In order to be there for others, you need to be there for yourself.

Physical Self-Care

Emotional Self-Care

Spiritual Self-Care

-Prioritize sleep
-Establish a workout routine (Just Move!)
-Eat foods that fuel your body. Indulge occasionally.

-Channel your feelings into creativity
-Work w/a therapist or attend a support group

-Pray/Meditate daily
-Spend time in nature
-Choose compassion