Self-care extends beyond merely addressing physical needs. It involves nurturing your emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being to create a fulfilling and balanced life. While many associate self-care with activities like exercising, eating well, or pampering oneself, it encompasses much more than that. Let’s look at what some of your professionals are saying here at Xenia, a therapy practice in Orem, Utah.
In the Self Care Episode of the Fate Resilience Podcast, a Xenia therapist, Taylor Madsen, LMFT states that self-care is about crafting a life that brings contentment and happiness, where you don't feel the constant need to escape. It's about making intentional choices that align with your values and aspirations, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Listen to this episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-care/id1631959226?i=1000567991881
In that same episode, Hailey Maire, LCSW at Xenia shares her perspective and highlights the personalized nature of self-care. It's not just about indulging in things you desire, but also about engaging in activities and practices that support your growth and help you reach your full potential. These might include developing new skills, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in meaningful relationships.
Jennifer Oxford emphasizes the significance of recognizing ourselves as valuable beings with emotions and needs. It's about treating ourselves with compassion, kindness, and understanding, just as we would treat a close friend or loved one. This involves acknowledging our emotions, allowing ourselves to feel and process them, and seeking support when needed.
Now that we know what it is, here are some examples of self care that you can start today!
Setting healthy boundaries
Knowing when to say no to commitments or situations that drain our energy and wellbeing. Prioritizing rest and downtime is crucial as well, as it allows us to recharge and maintain our overall health. Being comfortable with saying the word no is a useful skill to learn in adulthood and can be crucial to personal growth.
Getting proper sleep
Find out what amount is appropriate for your age group and try to create a nightly routine that helps you get those hours in as well as prepare yourself for the night time. Trauma victims actually require more sleep than the average human however most of the time those people are actually getting less. Your body carries sleep debt and needs certain hours to be able to function properly.
Showering and hygiene
Not only should you shower and fulfill your basic needs but also personalize your routine to you. Find your favorite smells, textures, products. Try to really pamper yourself sometimes and make it something you enjoy because let’s face it, you deserve it!
Watching your meals
The correlation between energy levels and diet is a vital aspect of overall well-being. When you nourish your body with clean, nutrient-rich meals, you provide it with the fuel it needs to function optimally. A balanced and nutritious diet not only boosts physical health but also enhances mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall vitality, allowing you to approach each day with a renewed sense of energy and focus. Taking care of your dietary habits can lead to lasting benefits, supporting your body's resilience and ability to thrive in all aspects of life.
Furthermore, self-care is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it varies from person to person. What works for one individual may not work for another. It's essential to explore and discover what activities and practices resonate best with our own unique needs and preferences.
Moreover, self-care goes beyond the individual level. It can also involve creating supportive communities and environments that promote well-being for all. When we take care of ourselves and others, we contribute to the development of healthier and happier societies.
In summary, self-care is a holistic approach to life, encompassing physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. It involves making conscious choices, setting boundaries, and fostering self-compassion. By nurturing ourselves in this way, we can lead more fulfilling lives and, in turn, positively impact those around us. So, remember to embrace self-care as an ongoing journey of self-discovery and growth, and never underestimate its power to improve your overall quality of life.
For more information go to https://www.xeniacounseling.org/ to meet a mental health professional near you and make an appointment today!
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