“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel”—Eleanor Brown
CEO Brown Consulting and inspirational writer
If you’re considering longevity, sound health, mind and body, self-care is not an option but a choice you have to make. Self-care implies anything you do to keep yourself healthy physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Caring for yourself is not being selfish or self-centered but a necessity to maintain a healthy status to achieve your dream and aspirations in life.
As life throws challenges on a daily basis, such as job loss, divorce , financial crisis, health challenge, it is important to keep self-care top of mind and not an after-thought.
While supporting and helping others who may be in need, it is very important for you to also take care of yourself.
Exemplifying self-care does not in any way mean you are choosing yourself over your loved ones. It shows that you are simply being mindful of your own needs and not just to please others.
Frank, a hardworking man who works as an administrative officer, has three siblings who depend on him for their welfare. The sudden death of his father in his 3rd year in the University took a toll on Frank, he struggled to see himself through school alongside the little support from his mother. His determination to complete his studies in the university was one eulogized by many who were close to him.
The task of taking care of his family fell upon him as the first child. Thankfully, he got a good job after graduating. For years, he shouldered the responsibilities of seeing his siblings through school with little attention to himself. As time waits for no one and before he could realize it, he’s almost 40 years and not yet married. Seeing his contemporary doing well for themselves, married with children, it now dawned on him that there is a need to focus more attention on himself. Although he felt it was late, he picked himself up, got married and started his own family.
Dimensions to self-care
There are four dimensions of self-care namely:
- Emotional self-care: This might include setting clear boundaries on every issue of life. Endeavour to spend time with people who care about you and people who you care for.
- Physical self-care: This involves maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle which entails drinking lots of water, having regular exercise and eating a healthy diet. It is always important to enjoy moments to rest and replenish.
- Psychological: Here you’re expected to cultivate self-awareness through meditation, coaching or counseling, reading helpful books in any chosen area. At this time, it is important to take time for personal reflection.
- Spiritual health: At this point, pause and reflect on what you’re currently doing for your spiritual self-care.This will help one connect with purpose,meaning and essence of life. Here, one can spend time with nature and be aware of non-material aspect of life
How to get started with self-care
The following tips will help you start the all-important journey of self-care:
- Get regular exercise : Getting regular exercise on a daily basis can help boost your mood and improve your health status.
- Sleeping adequately: Sleeping at least 7 -9 hours daily goes a long way in relaxing your nerves and as well help in putting you in the right frame of mind.
- Have regular meals, eat healthy and stay hydrated: Eating regularly with a balanced diet and lots of fluids can enhance your energy and make you stay focused all day.
- Stay connected with loved ones: Always stay connected to your friends and family members at all times as they are in a better position to provide emotional support and practical help when needed.
- Engage in relaxation activity: Engage in wellness programs, relaxation activities or apps which can incorporate meditation, breathing exercises , muscle relaxation and this will help improve your all round well-being.
Benefits of Self-care
If you prioritize selfcare, you will reap the following benefits:
- Better relationships
- Improved physical and mental health
- Enhanced self-esteem
- Less stress and anxiety
In Summary
Self-care serves as a compass guiding individuals toward a balanced and fulfilling life. Recognizing its significance, taking practical steps, and reaping the benefits contribute to resilience, vitality, and lasting well-being. At Balance of Creation, we encourage everyone to embrace self-care for a future marked by sound holistic health.
