In short, yes, it’s more than just having a soak in a bubble bath once in a while! Self-care isn’t indulgence; it’s maintenance. But it’s also something that often falls by the wayside and is easily forgotten.
In a world that celebrates busyness and constant productivity, the idea of slowing down or putting our needs first can feel selfish. We don’t see it as essential.
But the truth? We can’t pour from an empty cup. It may be a cliche but it is true. I often have to remind myself that it’s when I’m at my busiest and find myself thinking that I don’t have the time to take a break that I need one the most.
At its core, self-care is about preserving our mental, physical and emotional well-being. And that’s definitely not just about the occasional bubble bath. It’s about making regular choices that benefit us – mind and body. It’s also about:
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating real food
- Moving our bodies
- Setting boundaries
- Saying ‘no’ when we need to.
- Taking time out to rest and recharge.
Self-Care & Mental, Physical and Emotional Health
Mental health is one of the biggest reasons self-care matters. Our modern world means that stress is unavoidable but without putting healthy coping mechanisms in place it can build up and break us down. Burnout doesn’t just appear out of nowhere, and neither do the anxiety and depression associated with it. They can grow in the gaps where self-care is missing. Taking time to rest, disconnect, focus on our needs or just breathe isn’t lazy. It’s proactive. It keeps stress from taking over. Self-care practices have a profound effect on our physical health too.
On an emotional level, self-care helps us to remain grounded. I’m sure most of us have experienced how we feel when we are stretched too thin; we become impatient and easily irritated, our empathy shrinks; our ability to show up for others decreases or disappears. Ironically, taking care of ourselves is one of the best ways to be there for others.
You Matter
There’s actually a deeper message in practicing self-care: it sends a message (to us and others) that we matter. In a culture that mistakenly pushes overwork and busyness as signs of strength, choosing to do something about that avoids the pitfall of self-neglect.
Still, I know it’s not straightforward. I don’t find it easy and sometimes have to remind myself to practice what I preach! But the benefits far outweigh the risks.
Self-care (and that occasional bubble bath) isn’t a quick or a one-time fix. It’s a set of habits and attitudes that support you, not just when things go wrong but regularly. Maintenance.
We don’t earn self-care. We need it. And the more we practice it, the more we realise it’s not optional – it’s essential. So we need to ask ourselves this: what can I do to prioritise my self-care today?
If you need support with your health and wellbeing, you can book a free call here or just give me a call on 01242 227752.
