Self-care has been my biggest priority as I bring this new life into the world, so let’s talk about how to focus on your own self-care.
When we practise authentic, embodied self-care, we get the opportunity to…
– Tune in with ourselves in a deeper way
– Recharge our batteries and resources before they’re empty
– Maintain the ability to connect with our loved ones and communities
That is what makes a true difference for us and the world.
Self-care requires conscious effort and connection with what truly serves you.
It’s okay if you don’t know how to take care of yourself best from the beginning. Experiment with different ways. If you want to learn more, please stay tuned for my online self-care course which will be released later this year: Authentic Steps Towards Emotional Wellbeing – Self Care Practices for Inner Peace & Joy.
“Self-care is so much more than a beauty regimen or an external thing you do. It has to start within your heart to know what you need to navigate your life.” – Carrie-Anne Moss
Self-care is not just a skincare session. It’s a thoughtful, intentional dedication to putting yourself first in the moments when you need it – then expanding this practise to put yourself first all the time. Not in a selfish way, but in a way that builds you up so you can reach your goals and serve others.
What makes you feel most refreshed, centred and ready for what each day might bring?
Self-care is a connection with yourself, just like your connection to the earth, or your connection with loved ones. It must be prioritised, built and maintained. It doesn’t always come easy. Just be consistent.
If you’re having trouble sinking into self-care, change your perspective.
It’s not a waste of time. It’s not selfish. It’s necessary. You will never be able to pour from an empty cup. So make sure yours is full.
“Self-care is one of the active ways that I love myself. When you can and as you can, in ways that feel loving, make time and space for yourself.” — Tracee Ellis Ross
I love this quote, because it beautifully encompasses what self-care is about: an active, intentional dedication to loving yourself and putting yourself first.
There are so many different kinds of self-care practises for inner peace and joy.
If you’re not sure which one serves you best, let’s talk about how you can better connect with your authentic self to understand what you need.
Learning to distinguish our “should do’s” from our true, authentic needs goes a long way, as our capacity to attend to our needs defines our potential for authentic self-care.
What are your emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual needs in this moment?
Are you aware of them, or only of some?
What hurdles can you notice within yourself to acknowledge your needs?
Give yourself time to do nothing at least once a week.
Maybe that is…
Time spent in Mother Nature dreaming.
Taking a nap.
Watching your favourite series.
Drawing, doodling, journaling without purpose.
Meditating.
Can you give yourself full permission to do that?
One way to actively practise self-care every day is by implementing positive affirmations into your daily routine. Whether you write them on a sticky note you keep at your desk, repeat them in your mind, or say them out loud, positive affirmations have real benefits.
What are yours?
Here are some self-care affirmations to feel supported and empowered:
I am deserving of rest and relaxation
I am worthy of taking time for myself and my needs
I am capable of prioritising my physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing
I am creating a healthy and balanced lifestyle
I am proud of my efforts to take care of myself
I am worthy of self-love and self-acceptance
I am capable of setting boundaries
Remember to take care of your inner AND outer space.
Declutter, wipe down surfaces, or reorganise. Sometimes it can be hard to find the motivation to do chores or clean up, but once it’s done, you’ll feel fresh and clear-headed. That feeling is so worth it.
There are no wasted moments.
Even when you slow down to such stillness, that you feel like you’re not present…
You’re resting, recharging, rejuvenating. And you need that.
“With every act of self-care your authentic self gets stronger, and the critical, fearful mind gets weaker. Every act of self-care is a powerful declaration: I am on my side, I am on my side, each day I am more and more on my own side.” — Susan Weiss Berry
Self-care connects you to your most authentic self, as you choose yourself over and over – so you learn to do so in every facet of life.
Remember, almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes…
Including YOU 🙂
