What is Self-Care?
This post on the Self-Care is written by Marie Wiliszewski, M.A., LAC
Key Insights
- Self-care extends beyond social media stereotypes – it’s any intentional activity that replenishes your wellbeing and energy.
- Quality self-care doesn’t require extensive time commitments; even small, intentional moments can be effective.
- The most effective self-care is personalized to your specific needs and preferences rather than following generic trends.
- Mindful engagement is crucial – focus on activities that involve your senses and keep you present in the moment.
- Avoid passive activities like “doom-scrolling” that may feel like self-care but actually increase anxiety.
Everyone has heard the word “self-care” before. It has become a hot-button word that lots of people use. Personal wellness is discussed everywhere, from therapy to social media apps like TikTok and Instagram. Most viral videos show these individuals engaging in an extensive routine that includes a bubble bath, face masks, scented oils, and a multistep skin-care routine.
There is more to self-care than just the stereotypical ideas that are idealized through social media. Personal restoration is anything that you engage in for yourself to fill your cup and make you feel good. Self-care does not have to be something that needs 20+ minutes, rather it can be “smaller” things that are incorporated. When engaging in this form of self-nourishment, try to be intentional and specific to you and your needs. Self-care is not a one-size-fits-all activity.
Which Kind of Self Care is Right For Me?
There are many different ways you can go about self-soothing. Yes, if you want to have a self-care night where you draw a bubble bath, have a scented candle burning, and relax with a face mask, go right ahead, no one is stopping you. But if you don’t have all of that time, or bubble baths are not your thing, no worries. You can specialize your self-care to be more specific to you. When thinking of what to do when looking to decompress, keep these concepts in mind:
- Activities that you enjoy. By purposefully engaging in your activity, you can help you to pour into your cup. This can allow you to reconnect with yourself, just as you would after seeing a long-distance friend.
- Being mindful of your body. Sometimes, going for a walk or working out is a good way to focus on your body. Getting your body moving is a great way to release stress and reground yourself.
- Nourish your body with food and water. Find your soul-nourishing foods and mindfully eat them. Pay attention to the flavors, the texture, the temperature, and how many chews it takes you to eat before swallowing. This will allow you to be in the present moment and focus on what your body needs in the here and now.
- Being intentional. While self-maintenance can incorporate a wide range of activities, being mindful of what you are going to do is important. Utilizing the five senses can be beneficial. For example: notice the temperature or flavor of your favorite drink.
- Avoid engaging in activities that may feel mindless or “doom-scrolling” on your phone. Mindlessly scrolling through your phone may feel like self-care but it will keep you in an anxious state.
In Summary
The key aspects above will help to improve the quality of your personal wellness. Ultimately, you know yourself best when it comes to how you decompress.
Some people enjoy quality time with their friends, family, and animals, while others enjoy reading. No matter what it is your doing, as long as you are showing yourself the love that you deserve, you are engaging in self-care.
Check out our other popular blog posts:
Leave a Comment