Often the very mention of self-care, can send busy parents and carers into a tailspin of outrage. “I’m managing all this and now I have to meditate for hours, have bubble baths and go to the spa! Can’t you see what I’m dealing with”. Quite understandably.
But there is often a misconception about what self-care is, and the wider context for how it can be integrated in a meaningful way into your life is misunderstood. We know that it is when we abandon ourselves that we are at the greatest risk of burnout. So if it’s all about bubble baths and spa days, surely we can manage without these things. Well, I’d argue that self-care is actually a much wider gamut of attitudes and actions.
In this post I will list 8 different facets of self-care, and I’d urge you to do a little life audit as you read it. Are there some boundaries that need putting in for yourself? Do you need to remind yourself (or learn) what makes you feel healthy and fulfilled? This is in no way intended as an exhaustive list of things you need to tick off, it’s intended as a nudge to see what areas of your life might need some attention.
Physical self-care
Healthy food * Exercise * Walking * Stretching * Rest * Sleep * Physical release of tension * Personal grooming
Emotional self-care
Self-compassion * Letting go of self-criticism * Kindness * Stress Management * Forgiveness * Talking about your emotions
Social self-care
Boundaries * Support systems * Communication * Time with positive people * Positive social media * Being connected to inspiring people
Spiritual self-care
Being in nature * Time alone * Meditation * Prayer * Breathe work * Journalling * Connecting to a wider perspective
Personal Identity self-care
Personal identity * Being guided by your values * Hobbies * Interests * Knowing yourself
Space self-care
Safety * Organised living space * Healthy living environment * Security and stability
Financial self-care
Money management * Budgeting * Saving * Paying Bills * Treating yourself occasionally
Work self-care
Work boundaries * Positive workplace * Time management * Ongoing learning * Taking breaks
So there are more aspects to self-care than initially meet the eye. Self-care is about mind, body and soul. Is there an area in your life that you would like to prioritise a little more?
