If You Ever Feel Guilty for Taking Care of Yourself, Read this!
This is your permission slip to intentionally practice self-care and manage your energy, without guilt ❤️
Over the past 8+ years as I’ve been supporting other people with their well-being journeys, I’ve found that a lot of us feel guilty when we take care of ourselves. Especially women. In a world that often glorifies hustle culture, it’s crucial to recognize that taking time for one self is not selfish - it’s an act of self-preservation.
First of all, I think we deserve to take care of ourself simply because we are human beings. And, secondly, I think it helps to remember that when we take care of our own well-being, we do not only do it for us, we do it for the other people in our lives too.
The cliché often used is that we need to “put on our own oxygen mask before helping others.” Sounds a bit cheesy, I know. Still, this is really true! Because if we “run out of oxygen” and burn out, we’re not able to help anyone else. But when we take care of our own well-being and manage our energy, it not only makes us feel better and more energized, it also helps us be an even more supportive friend, partner, parent, daughter, son, or sibling. And a more motivated and productive employee, colleague, student, or team member.
Parker Palmer put it well:
“Self-care is never a selfish act - it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer others. Anytime we can listen to true self and give the care it requires, we do it not only for ourselves, but for the many others whose lives we touch.”
I also think it’s important to know that self-care does not have to be glamorous. Self-care comes in various forms, and it’s not always about extravagant spa days or lavish treats. Don’t get me wrong, I love that stuff. But, like most people, that sort of luxury is not accessible to me very often. And it’s also not necessary.
True self-care is about tuning in to your body and recognizing what your mind and body need to be well. And then giving that to yourself. Maybe it’s a walk outside to get some fresh air and daylight. Maybe taking a break to stretch or move your body in a way that feels supportive for you. Maybe it’s a phone call to someone you care about. Maybe it’s mindfully enjoying a cup of your favorite hot beverage (tea or hot chocolate in my case!). Or nourishing yourself with a tasty meal. Maybe it’s saying no to something you know will drain your energy. Or maybe it’s taking a nap. Self-care is really about allowing yourself the everyday practices and rituals accessible to you that contribute to your mental and emotional well-being.
I hope this post inspires you to allow yourself to practice self-care in intentional ways ❤️
Did this post spark any questions for you? I’m here to support you. Get in touch & we’ll explore how we can work together.
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