Self-Care: Beyond Massages and Spas
The term ‘self-care’ is something many of us have heard time and time again, and with the widespread of pop-psychology, it is usually accompanied by bubble baths, spa days, and massages. While all these are very enjoyable activities, authentic self-care spans far beyond just enjoyment. A lot of us live fast-paced lifestyles, seamlessly moving from one responsibility to another and the very idea of taking a break can sound alien. With that in mind, the idea of self-care often tends to be associated with ideas of selfishness and neglect of other responsibilities. This way of thinking is especially prominent in stressful times where demands are high but meeting them may mean disregard of one’s mental or physical health. At the same time, not meeting them may mean resistance and criticism. This stigma can lead people to feel an overwhelming sense of guilt and inadequacy when it comes to nurturing themselves. Taking care of oneself is an essential core component that helps individuals stay healthy, work their jobs, help, and care for others, and maintain the many demanding roles that people play in their lives. As the saying goes “you cannot pour from an empty cup”.
Another misconception about self-care includes the notion that someone practicing it has reached their limit or is struggling with managing their duties. While some people may only pay attention to their need to recharge and self-soothe under circumstances where they have no choice but to care for themselves (such as falling ill), others may have a regular habit of taking breaks.
Furthermore, considering how individually different people can be, the way they may practice self-care can also vary. What may help one person relax and unwind may be the last thing another would think of doing. Some may find that caring for themselves may not only include doing something new but doing previously familiar tasks in new ways. For example, being mindful while eating can help ground you in the present moment and enjoy a meal rather than rushing through a quick bite for lunch.
Self-care is important to maintaining a healthy relationship with ourselves by considering the needs of our minds and bodies while engaging in activities that promote wellbeing and reduce stress.
Some types of self-care can include:
Emotional
Emotional self-care includes caring for emotional needs by identifying and nurturing feelings. Some examples of how this can be practiced include positive self-talk, spending time with friends, finding a creative outlet, saying “no” to things that cause unnecessary stress, and placing healthy boundaries within our relationships with other people.
Physical
Physical self-care includes nurturing our bodies and catering to their needs to support healthy physiological functioning. This involves healthy sleeping patterns, regular exercise, drinking enough water, and maintaining a balanced and nourishing diet.
Spiritual
The spiritual aspect of self-care involves connection to a sense of meaning in life. This can be found and cultivated through prayer, meditation, spending time in nature, traveling, journaling, practicing gratitude, and connecting with the greater community.