When I was a teacher, I remember talking to my 6th graders about the importance of good hygiene. My colleagues and I loved these conversations with kids, even though it usually meant swapping the smell of B.O. for clouds of cologne.
As adults we understand the importance of basic self-care.
Brushing our teeth, showering, getting enough sleep. We know how important these daily habits are to not only our health, but our well-being too.
Self-care goes beyond the daily rituals and routines of good hygiene.
It encompasses those little moments throughout the day when you take time out just for you. And no—I’m not talking about mindlessly perusing Facebook and Instagram. I’m talking about those intentional moments when you honor your worth and give yourself profound care. It could be a hot shower in the morning and really noticing the warmth of the water as it hits your body. Maybe it’s a yoga class after a long day of work. It might be an iced-coffee on a summer’s day or reading your favorite book at night before bed. If you’re like me, it might be in the form of a private dance party in your living room— hair flips included. Self-care looks like any and all of these mini-moments of you loving on you.
Self-care is self-love. And self-love is not selfish.
Let that sink in for a minute. Think about all the times you’ve decided to skip your self-care. Maybe there just wasn’t enough time to squeeze that workout in or get that manicure or take a full lunch break. What happens when you decide there’s not enough time? You decide to push through whatever commitments you have. You keep going and doing, going and doing. When you create a habit and daily routine of NOT prioritizing your self-care, you start to feel drained, exhausted, and completely wiped. This leaves you feeling frustrated, and you better believe this comes through in how you show up in the world.
I’m a believer that by creating daily rituals and routines around self-care, you are making a bold statement that it’s okay to take time out for you.
Self-care really is AN intentional statement you are making to yourself that you are worthy of your own care.
Sometimes it might look like a bubble bath, a yummy latte, or a new top. And other times, it is lovingly reframing your self-talk, taking a deep breath to collect your thoughts, or creating some much-needed personal boundaries.
What statement do you want your self-care to communicate?