Mindfulness Monday: Self-Care
Self-care is something that I have had to learn the hard way. For a long time, I thought that taking care of myself was selfish or indulgent. I was always putting other people’s needs before my own, and as a result, I was feeling drained, stressed, and unhappy. I felt as if I was giving more and getting less back.
It wasn’t until I hit a breaking point that I realized I needed to make some changes. I stopped myself and reflected on why I am at the breaking point, and what I need to do to be heard or at least get others to listen. I was constantly tired, irritable, and overwhelmed. I knew that something had to give, and that something was me. I realized that I couldn’t keep going at the pace I was going, and that I needed to prioritize my own well-being. I needed to put “me” first.
There are a lot of things I’ve done in the past that have not necessarily provided me with the downstream effects that benefit my health and wellness. I give so much to others and I wonder why I don’t get the same effort or energy given back to me. I thought, maybe I need to just set boundaries, or maybe I need to take care of my self first.
So, I started small. I made a commitment to get enough sleep each night, even if it meant saying no to social events or work obligations. I started eating healthier foods and drinking more water, which made me feel better physically and mentally. I made time to exercise regularly, whether it was going for a walk or doing a yoga class.
But perhaps the most significant change I made was learning to say no. I realized that I didn’t have to say yes to everything that came my way. I started setting boundaries and prioritizing my own needs, even if it meant disappointing someone else. I learned that self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential.
Through these changes, I have discovered that self-care is not just about bubble baths and massages (although those are great too!). It’s about creating a lifestyle that supports your well-being. It’s about learning to tune in to your needs and giving yourself permission to take care of yourself.
Now, self-care is a non-negotiable part of my life. It’s not always easy, and there are times when I slip back into old habits. But I know that when I prioritize my own well-being, I am better equipped to handle whatever challenges come my way. I now do my best to connect and invoke a standard when I’m asked something or for something. I no longer just over do myself for others with out discussing what I’m able to deliver and do they need it, or do they deserve it.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, I encourage you to take a step back and ask yourself what you need. Maybe it’s a good night’s sleep, a healthy meal, or a few minutes of quiet time. Whatever it is, give yourself permission to take care of yourself. Remember that self-care is not selfish, it’s necessary for your well-being.
Thanks for taking the time to read this blog post on self-care! I hope that my personal experiences and insights have resonated with you and inspired you to prioritize your own well-being.
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Thanks again for reading, and I look forward to connecting with you soon! I’ve linked books I own throughout using my Amazon associates link. If you are like me and don’t like to hold a book and read it, I’ve found Amazon Audible (Try it for 30 Days) to be very beneficial.
