Lesson 1: Why Self-Care Matters & The Simple Ways To Treat Yourself

I used to believe that if I didn't take care of everyone else's needs first

I was a bad sister, daughter, friend, etc. But instead, I became a doormat. And you know what happens to doormats they are worn out, torn with edges hanging, and eventually have to be tossed out and replaced.

You see like many of us, we tend to become people-pleasers, ensuring that everyone is taken care of while neglecting our needs.

I am not promoting that you become irresponsible or neglectful of your responsibilities. I am encouraging you to take care of yourself first so you can be the best version of yourself for your family, friends, coworkers, and of course yourself.

About Self-Care

It involves nurturing your body, mind, and spirit. It focuses on building yourself up so that your internal resources don’t become depleted.

Essentially, self-care is being as good to yourself as you would be to someone you care about. It requires you to show yourself some compassion and encourages you to be vulnerable with others, asking to help you when you need it.

What doesn’t fall under the umbrella of self-care are self-destructive coping mechanisms such as using drugs, drinking, gambling, or retail therapy. These things only make you feel good in the short-term.

There are many variations

There are countless ways to add self-care into your routine. The key is to choose activities that are most enjoyable to you and provide you with the most benefits.

Going for a walk in nature is great for those who enjoy the outdoors. Other forms of exercise like yoga, running, or going to the gym work well, too.

Spending time with friends can be rejuvenating, but so can saying no.

Allowing yourself to decline invitations or favors when you’re feeling run-down is a big part of caring for yourself. Treating yourself to a favorite, affordable indulgence like a movie, manicure, or ice cream cone are all good examples.

As is taking a bath or meditating. These are just a few of the ways you can easily incorporate self-care into your life.

Now you know what self-care is and what it’s important. You’ve also got some ideas of how to get started, so you’re well on your way to adding this useful practice to your life.

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