What is self care?
“I have come to believe that caring for myself is not self indulgent. Caring for myself is an act of survival.” — Audre Lorde
Self care is just that. An act of survival.
It’s not always chocolate and bubble baths, although those things can help. It’s not spa days, even though they feel good at the time.
Sometimes, it is the small, simple acts of allowing yourself to not just survive this stressful world, but to thrive.
I wanted to use this blog post to dispel a lot of myths about what self care really is.
You see that phrase everywhere you look these days, self care. Initially, I thought it was pretty simple. Just do things you enjoy, take time for yourself. How hard could that be?
Yes, that is correct, in its essence. But that is oversimplifying it so much that it almost makes it incorrect.
What I have come to believe is that real self care is made up of 4 different aspects. These are non-negotiable, and are critical for making the self care successful.
This post contains affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. See my Privacy and Affiliate Disclaimer pages for more info.
Also, I am not a doctor or mental health professional. Just someone who has lived with anxiety for many years who is passionate about sharing her experiences and tips for success. If you are in crisis call your doctor, then click here for some good mental health resources.
How to know when you need self care
Before we get into what self care really is, how do you know if you need it at all? Here are some key warning signs that I am drawing from my own experience. These might not all apply to you in your particular season of burn out, but I guarantee you can relate to at least one of them, if not more.
- You feel more fatigued than is normal for you
- You find yourself irritable at the littlest provocation
- There is a lack of caring/motivation (on your part) in your day to day life
- You face relationship issues
- You are having issues at work
- Maybe you feel sick physically
Do any of these resonate with you? If you are unsure, I recommend starting a journal. At the end of each day, take 5 minutes to work on some self-identifying.
How was your day?
How did you feel mentally?
Physically?
What were your stressors?
If you do this for a week or so, it should help you get a better idea of whether or not you are experiencing some of the symptoms I listed above.
What self care really is
I really had to learn to change how I viewed self care, like I mentioned above, if I was going to help myself get well. I had to stop thinking that it was just eating dessert after dinner if I ate all my veggies.
Ultimately, I had to realize that my mental health was in my hands, for better or for worse. Either I was going to engage in activities that help me get well, or I was not. Simple as that.
Yes, mental health is not simple. It is a very complicated and debilitating situation for a lot of people. However, we are very much in control of how we respond to the symptoms of our illness That is simple. Not easy, but simple.
“We are still masters of our fate. We are still captains of our souls.” Winston Churchill
For self care to be effective, it has to have the following four characteristics.
Self care is duplicatable
A mental health mentor of mine, Jordan Brown, said very eloquently, “Self-care is more than hot bubble baths and kind words. It’s choosing self-love practices that fit into your life. If it’s not part of your regular schedule, it might as well not even exist. Protecting your energy has to be part of what you do, day in and day out.”
I couldn’t have said it better myself. Self care is duplicatable. That means that it is something you can do over and over again in hopes to achieve the same results. It must be done on a regular basis (as long as you are finding it helpful), and must be a part of your day to day schedule.
Otherwise, it is simply less effective.
Self care is affordable
Another important aspect of self care is it must be financially affordable. I don’t want to be misunderstood here: Vacations are great. Spa days are freaking awesome. But they are typically expensive. Valuable maybe, but costly.
If someone is trying to relieve themselves of stress in a difficult time, I do not recommend adding the stress of struggling to finance your self care habits. Are you in a season of life where you are trying to save a little money? You can still practice self care.
When the activities you choose are costly, they become non-duplicatable, making them less effective overall.
Self care is restorative (vs pleasurable)
This is a really important distinction that needs to be made when discussing self care. I use myself as an example for this a lot. I am a massive introvert. I love my friends and family, but alone time is when I feel my best.
So, while going out and grabbing drinks with some friends is FUN (I usually enjoy myself at the time), it is not restorative for me. I am usually having to play “catch up” for a few days after a late night drinking.
Yes, you should enjoy the self care. It shouldn’t feel like punishment. But sometimes being pleasurable does not mean it is exactly what your mental health needs that day.
Self care is not living in a toxic environment
One of the best things you can do for your emotional health is set boundaries. If we are living in an environment where we are constantly bombarded by negative emotions, it is going to be very hard for us to heal.
Sometimes it is the people we are in contact with on a daily basis. Sometimes it is using too much social media. Sometimes it is staying in a job that is doing nothing but give you stress.
We have to do what we can to remove ourselves from these situations. I don’t believe any emotional damage is permanent. After all, the power of the human spirit is STRONG. But if we stay in toxic environments for too long, it can be very hard to go back and erase the damage.
Ideas for REAL self care
So, what can you do? If your nights out bingeing vodka cranberries aren’t cutting it, and after an expensive spa day you still feel unwell, what should you do instead?
Here are my list of 10 activities you can do daily to feel restored in a time of stress. These activities are all duplicatable, affordable, restorative, and non-toxic (theoretically).
Write in a journal. Write 3 things that went well that day, if you are unsure where to start.
Eat a healthy breakfast. Grab a banana if you have to.
Drink plenty of water. At least 64oz, but shoot for more if you’re super active.
Go to sleep 15 minutes earlier. Or set your alarm to wake up 15 minutes later.
Call a friend who motivates you and is a good influence.
Go for a 20 minute walk. If the weather’s bad, walk around the house.
Take a bath with epsom salt. There are a lot of benefits of epsom salt, and it feels so good!
Take 5 extra minutes on your lunch break.
Spend some time meditating. Even if you can’t quiet yourself completely. Try guided meditation if you do not know where to start.
Take up a new hobby. I think learning something new can be a great distraction for our brains, and very rewarding.
Why does this all matter?
Self care matters because YOU matter. You matter more than any one person could ever say. That means you need to be doing what you can to take care of that body, mind, and heart of yours.
Sometimes we let life get to us. We’re all guilty of it. I know I am. But it’s how we respond that makes us human, and makes us amazing. It’s the little ways we keep ourselves alive on a daily basis.
“Letting it get to you. You know what that’s called? Being alive. Best thing there is. Being alive right now is all that counts.” (The Eleventh Doctor)
What are you going to do to start taking better care of yourself? Share your thoughts in the comments! And don’t forget to share this post if you found it helpful!
Think about my self care definition, and how you can start taking better care of you.
Related posts for what self care is:
How to recognize the physical symptoms of depression and anxiety
7 types of rest: Which one do you need to feel more emotionally well?
Taking Control of Your Health: Only You Can Make You Better
50 Must Have Mental Health Resources that You Need to Know About
Self care it’s a complex way to take care of yourself. I think I need more time for myself!
We all do! It takes a lot to keep your mind and heart in tip top shape. Thanks for reading!
I really enjoyed reading this. As a mum with small children, I definitely know how self care really needs to be built into your daily rhythm – once your cup is empty it is so hard to refill it!
Yep! We can’t pour from an empty cup as my therapist says. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Feel free to share!
Mental health and self care is so important. It is good to rest and recharge so that you don’t get overwhelmed.
For sure. Everyone needs to time during the day to collect their thoughts and just process the day. Thanks for reading!
I think self care is extremely important, especially as a family unit. When the mom isn’t taking care of her mental health, the entire family is affected. This is great information on what self care really is. For me, I try to meditate and journal. It really does help!
Definitely! If mom’s not right, no one is! Thanks for reading.
Wow! This was a total wake-up call for me. I completely agree that we have been marketed a version of self-care that isn’t long lasting. I am going to choose a few of the self care habits you recommend so I can work on self care daily. Thank you!
That is so great to hear. I’m glad you found that you learned a lot from it. Thanks for reading, and good luck!
I love the idea that it must be duplicatable. Something to fit in to every day. I often forget to take care of myself (even just the basics) but am trying to get better at it every day. Thanks!
You’re welcome! I’m glad you got something out of it. Make sure to make yourself a priority:-)
I loved reading this post. You achieved your desire to dispel the myths around self care being indulgent. Self care can be the simple, natural things we do daily to be restored. Putting pen to paper with journaling, reconnecting with our breath in meditation, taking walks in nature. Self care is a gift to ourselves.
Thank you! You are always so kind. I’m glad you found it useful. Feel free to share!
Self care is so important especially at a time like this. Meditation is my daily self care go to.
I’m looking to start meditating, but never know where to start. I’m going to have to look something up on Youtube. Thanks for reading!
Self-care is so important! I love the different ideas you’ve shared to help us stay healthy.
Thank you! I appreciate it!
I love this quote “Self-care is more than hot bubble baths and kind words. It’s choosing self-love practices that fit into your life.” I see it as a few minutes of me time while I soak In the bath once a week but this article has shown me it is so much more.
Thanks for the kind words! I’m glad you were able to take something from it.
Awesome ideas, I agree with you, treating yourself with a chocolate and bubble bath does help. This got my attention because I always recommend rewarding yourself after getting some stuff done and no matter what it is, you deserve it.
Yep! You definitely deserve it. Thanks for reading!
I liked the idea of writing journal and going to sleep earlier. Morning,
golden morning..
Can’t hurt to try! Thanks for reading.
Love the 10 tips, I’ve saved it for reference. You’ve explained very well what self care really is, great post.
Thank you! Much appreciated.
Self-care is a must isn’t it, but I don’t think people sometimes realise just what is about and how to best apply it to their life.
Yeah it is definitely a skill you have to practice. That’s for sure! Thanks for reading!
LOVE THIS
I have just written a post about self-care over on my blog too!
It’s certainly more than just painting your nails!
Oh cool! I will check it out. Thanks for stopping by.
Another excellent post as always pet! Self-care, although nice to have a wee spa day, isn’t just about the expensive things like that. It’s about what you’re able to do and afford in order to better look after your mind and body. Simply chilling on the couch when you’re mentally or physically unable to do anything else is self-care. For me brushing my hair is self-care.
Absolutely! Lying still in a quiet room helps me a lot. Thanks for reading as always!
As someone who has lived with anxiety and some mental health issues this was a great post. I need to be reminded to practice positive self care because life always seems to get in the way.
It does sometimes. You have to make it a non-negotiable part of the day! Take care.
When we finally move back home gardening is going to be my form of self care. I’ve been so excited to get going, but the weather needs to warm up!
That’s the same for my dad! He loves his garden. Thanks for reading!
Often times people forget that selfcare is all about mental health and the simplest things like drinking water and eating healthy can aid tremendously. I love the tips and advice you give, very helpful. Really like those end of the day questions. Great post!
Definitely! I think it really is simpler than a lot of people make it. Thanks for reading!
Great post, I think alot of people right now should read this post.
Thanks! Glad you found it helpful!
For me self care is reading. I love to read, so I make sure I set time to do it daily! It helps keep me balanced.
That is one of my favorites too! I also try to do it daily. Thanks for reading my post 🙂
I’ve realised that self-care is sometimes making sure you make a dentist appointment, eating good nutritious food and getting an adequate amount of exercise. You’ve got some really good ideas here for self-care and I hope everyone is using them during these difficult times.
Those are great ones! Keep on top of doctor’s appointments is very important. Thanks for reading!
Great post that really dives deep into self care. Thank you.
You are so welcome! Thanks for reading!
Thank you for this in-depth post about self-care! I think self-care is different for all of us, depending on if we are an introvert or extrovert, and so many other factors. Often, the little things we do can make a big difference!
I totally agree! The little actions really add up. Thanks for reading!
I am not successful either my selfcare practices. I barely have established selfcare practices and it is starting to take a toll on me. Thank you for these suggestions.
No problem! I hope you are able to build great habits using these tips. Thanks for reading!
Yes, a night out is fun, but then I need a few days to get over it. And, I don’t think it is always because of the alcohol. Too much stimulation, or people, or conversation; does that make sense. When I go out with friends, it has to be worth it (and a small group), or the recovery is painful.
I am the exact same way. it has to be worth it! Thanks so much for reading!
Such a timely topic, especially for us mommas. It’s very easy for moms to put ourselves on the back burner, but our self care is so important. Beautifully written.
Thank you! I appreciate it. Feel free to share!
Self care is so important – it gives us the energy to provide love to others – great post
Absolutely! We can’t pour from an empty cup. Thanks for reading. Feel free to share!
I’m a huge advocate for all that is included in self-care! As someone who struggles with their mental health having some sort of self-care in place is vital for me! I love meditating also! it really really helps to clear my mind and relax my body! Honestly, thank you so much for sharing! I’m sure you’ll help lots 🙂
Ashleigh – https://www.ashleighsmoments.com
Thanks so much for reading! Yes, meditation definitely helps a lot of people! I appreciate your kind words. Feel free to share.
I love all that is about self-care – so critical for the chronically ill (and all)! Thank you for sharing these great insights!
You are very welcome! Thanks for reading!
Thanks for publishing this awesome article.
I’m a long time reader but I’ve never been compelled to
leave a comment. I subscribed to your blog and shared this on my
Twitter. Thanks again for a great post! http://www.osteopathy-halifax.ca
thank you so much! I would have replied to you sooner, but it went into my spam folder. So sorry. I appreciate it!
An extra 5 minutes on my lunch break? My boss won’t be too happy with that, but since you’re advising it, it’d be rude to say no… 😉 I really need to get back into meditating! It can really help me sometimes.
Soph – https://girlvsworldblog.com x
Haha, tell them it’s good for your health! 🙂
True that, self care is not about outer happiness but making the inner soul happy
Exactly! It has to speak to your individual soul. Thanks for reading Feel free to share.
I love your ideas for self-care! I didn’t realize how important is was until about 6-12 months ago. This has definitely been a much calmer, more mentally sound time in my life due to my ability to make time for myself!
It really is beneficial! I’m glad you found a way to help yourself feel more calm and relaxed. Thanks for reading!
Self care is not living in a toxic environment. As a toxic environment survivor thank you for being open and honest about this topic. I agree wholeheartedly. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much! I appreciate you sharing that tidbit about you. It means a lot. Feel free to share!
Self care doesn’t have to cost money! Great ideas!
For sure! Thanks for reading. I appreciate it!
I absolutley love how you explore self care beyond bubble baths and chocolate. It’s the same idea I try to reinforce on my blog as well. Thanks for sharing your insights! 🙂
Thanks so much for reading! Happy to connect with a fellow MH blogger 🙂
Wonderful post! I also write about mental health and my post about self care really gets into the nitty gritty of it all, just like your post. Thank you for showing how self care is something everyone can do, but not just facemasks and rainbows 🙂
XO Steph
http://www.littlemissshortstuff.wordpress.com
Thanks for reading!! I appreciate it! I will check out your site.
Love whenever this topic gets attention!
Thanks! Self care has become a financial game for a lot of companies, and a lot of people don’t realize, it doesn’t have to cost anything!
Amazing post! Thank you so much, because unfortunately most of us are buying into the money-making part self-care has become about.
Very very true. Sometimes, I guess it involves spending money depending on what it is, but that shouldn’t be what it’s about. Thanks for reading. Feel free to share!
Loving these ideas of self care. It’s sometimes difficult for me to process that self care can simply be getting a few extra minutes of sleep versus a spa day. Going to try to implement some of these into my routine! 😊
Glad you found it helpful! Feel free to share!
Thank you for sharing your story! Self- care can totally get expensive. Love the take a walk outside idea
It sure can! And it doesn’t have to be. Thanks for reading!
This is such and important post. The media has watered down self care to spa days and dessert. You’re so right that little thought is given to mental state or health. I am currently reprogramming myself to understand selfcsre, practice and prioritize it.
That is so true! I just don’t think eating a donut for breakfast every now and then helps someone’s mental health lol. Feel free to share. Thanks again!
Self care really is so important! Thanks for sharing all this!
Thank you! I appreciate it
This is a great guide–sometimes we’re unsure of what self care really looks like, so I really liked that you offered suggestions on where to start! It’s a life-changing practice.
Thanks! I totally agree. Feel free to share!
I think self-care is something we should practice on a regular basis. I love exercising or eating a good meal, listening to music or just sitting quietly to read or write. If we recognize the importance of doing something, we will always find time for it.
Exactly! You gotta just try something, realize it helps, and then I guarantee you will find the time. Thanks for reading!
Love this. As someone who suffers from anxiety, I find this genuinely helpful! I completely agree that, while a spa day is nice, sometimes self-care means a little more than that. Last year I really started taking care of myself by eating better, being active, and taking care of my mental health. I’ve also realized that sometimes surviving throughout the day can be self-care enough for us. Great article!
Thanks for the kind words! I’m sorry you live with anxiety, but I’m glad you found useful tools to help. Hang in there.
I totally agree that self-care is about implementing practices that fit into your life. This could mean a simple ritual before bed for example and like you said, it needn’t be expensive. Thanks for an informative article.
Thank you for reading! I agree, the littlest, and sometimes short, ritual can really make all the difference!
I really enjoyed reading this article, particularly the sections about how you know you need self-care and how important it is to avoid toxic environments. Nice work.
Thank you! I am so glad you liked it! Feel free to share!
Hi Jen,
I absolutely love this post. As you point out, mental health itself is very difficult. Your ideas for self care can only help. And yes, self care matters because you all matter. Thanks very much.
Mark
Mark’s Travel Journal
https://www.markstraveljournal.me
Thanks for reading. I’m glad it resonated. Feel free to share!
Absolutely love this post! Yesterday was one of those days when I realized the power that self care has in keeping my mental health on the right track. From waking up I felt absolutely awful, and decided to work from home office. It was a small decision but the best I could’ve made. I really needed the time for myself right then and there. Self care is little things that you tend to take for granted but that matter the most when missing <3
Making a switch in a work habit is a great one! I’m glad it helped. Thanks for reading!
I completely agree with this! Self-care is always portrayed as romantic getaways and spa days but as you said, if you can’t even afford the spa day or it will stress you out financially, it’s not self-care! Restorative is the best way to describe it!
I am so glad you liked the post! Feel free to share if you found it helpful.
First of all, I loved the overall post. The structure and flow was perfect. My favourite bit was how you said what self care was with different words and terms. That brought it home. The tips are sure to help everyone who reads this post 😊
Thank you for the feedback! I appreciate you taking the time to read.
I like the quote that self care is choosing things that fit into your life- that is so true. I used to get frustrated with posts and advice on self care because they didn’t relate to my life with severe chronic illness- not everyone can go to a spa/have a bath as all the magazines say! This is a really helpful post!
Thanks! Glad it resonated with you!