Self Care: Important Now More than Ever!

By: Paula Ruiz

Self Care is an intentional activity or practice that we do to take care of our own mental, physical and emotional health.  

It's such a simple concept and yet we can very easily overlook it in our everyday lives.

With the challenges faced by the current global pandemic, it is even more essential that we look after our own wellbeing.  

Why engage in self care?

The benefits of self care can include an improved mood, reduced anxiety and stress, and overall better physical and mental health.

Is Self Care Selfish?
The simple answer is: NO.

There is a big misconception that self care is selfish. However, it can be quite the opposite. By taking care of our own needs, the better we may be able to love, support and care for others.

But Isn't Self Care more Work? I am already too busy and drained...

Self care should be something that fills your cup (e.g., brings joy, calm, peace...) and not something that drains you.  If you are feeling overwhelmed by the concept of self care or it feels like more work, that is not self care. Try to think instead of an activity, even if a very brief one, that will make you feel better.  

Self care may look differently for all of us.
For some it may be as simple as a cup of tea, a walk, or a moment to ourselves. For others it may mean, reaching out to a friend, exercising, preparing a healthy meal or watching a movie.

Self care entails self compassion.
Some days we may struggle with self care and that's okay. Even if we can give ourselves 2 minutes today, tomorrow is a new day and maybe we will be able to give more to ourselves. Like anything, self care takes practice too.