Did you know that July 24th is International Self Care Day? What do you think of when you hear those words “self-care”?
Do you roll your eyes and wonder what a bubble bath could ever really do for you?
Do you see it as a spa day or getting a massage and conclude you don’t have the means?
Do you see it as selfish indulgence and feel guilty following through?
Or maybe you agree that it sounds nice but decide that you don’t have time for it and move on.
If so, you aren’t alone. “Self-care” has gotten a bad rap and has been criticized for encouraging self-absorption, supporting over consumption and is seen as a privilege accessible to only a few. It is often thought of as the extra “to-do” we add on at the end of our day or on the weekend. One more task we struggle to accomplish and wind up feeling guilty about. But what if we thought of self-care, not as a thing we must do, but as a way of being, all the time and in everyday life.
Do you know what helps you remain grounded? How do you replenish your Mind, Body and Spirit? How do you live your life in a way that brings you connection? Connection to yourself, others, or perhaps something larger? Connection to meaning, purpose, culture, identity, creativity, passion, compassion …?
Self-care is not a one size fits all. We are all individuals with unique experiences. What works for one person may not be helpful for the next. Self-care takes practice and involves trying different strategies and figuring out what is most meaningful to you.
For more information on value based and holistic self-care and access to a self-care assessment check list, visit https://trauma-informed.ca/vicarious-trauma/prevention-and-recovery/self-care/
