In my own journey to self care and dealing with anxiety within the last year, these words have certainly rang true. What I have found essential to coping with my day to day is creating moments and patterns of self care that transition it from being a foreign umbrella word appearing in these larger discussions to something that feels tangible, accessible, and extremely personal because at its core, it is self-preservation. Personally, I define self care as an intentional act that provides a sense of restoration to oneself and offers reprieve in some form from mental, physical, and emotional stressors.
Regardless of how you define it, key to the concept is the fact that self care is not a monolith. The most important thing to keep in mind is that whatever you do, do so because it’s what makes you feel well. Self care will look different for everyone so it’s important to explore a variety of options and create habits that are individualized and grounded in your needs and experiences. For some of us who have anxiety, deal with other issues around mental health, or any other experiences, just getting out of bed can be a challenge. When we do it feels like a victory and most certainly an act of self care and that’s okay. I recognize that effort to intentionally and holistically nurture and replenish yourself no matter what form self care takes on.
Please note that in no way is this article a replacement for the help or advice of a licensed professional, but the hope is that something provided here from my experiences and shared moments with friends will be helpful in terms of guiding you in finding something that helps you in your journey as well. So without further ado, here’s my 10 lessons on self care.
1. The Game Plan
I’ve found that creating a checklist or self care plan can be incredibly helpful to have, even the most simplistic of self-made guides or reminders can do when you’re not feeling your greatest. This list could contain a step by step action plan, list of suggestions (like what’s listed here), a to-do list i.e. did you wash your hair, take your medication, did you eat today?
2. A Room of One’s Own
It can be challenging to create a safe space for yourself and even an act of privilege to be able do so. My safe space has been my bedroom many times in the last two years, but there have been times were it hasn’t felt as such. In those moments, I have found refuge in the spaces owned by friends and others in my support system. Being able to nap at a friend’s house and have an impromptu sleepover has reminded me that a safe space can also be found in the comfort of checking in with another person, a cup of tea shared at a local café, my work space where I keep a picture of my mother, or while taking in the city with a friend on the steps of a monument. It can be challenging to confide in others but doing so can be an incredible act of self care.