What does Self-Care Mean?

By Cassie Smith RN, BSN, NC-BC

I used to think that self-care had to be elaborate. What would come to mind is a scene from a movie- a person just went through a break up or gets fired from their job so they take themselves shopping to expensive stores,  or  relaxing while getting a massage at an exclusive spa or even going on a trip to a Caribbean resort. 

This is so unrealistic! Even though these things would be amazing to experience and could definitely be self care, Self-care should be enjoyed daily/weekly as routines or rituals. You should incorporate small enjoyable activities that flow into your everyday life so they do not feel like a “task” to check off your already long list of things to do!

I’ve had multiple clients that struggle with the concept of self-care. Even the word “self-care” made them uncomfortable. As parents, spouses, working or school oriented

adults, taking care of your self-care can feel like a “weakness” or “foreign”.  You can call self-care whatever you want that makes it relatable to you. Soul- care, heart- care, and you-care are just a few terms I’ve heard to replace the standard term of self-care. 

Self-care is important in many ways. Self- care is a deep breath, slowing down, reflecting, and becoming more aware of yourself & your surroundings. When you perform self-care, you are allowing time for yourself to re-discover, reduce stress & burnout, clear your mind and enjoy the moments of the day. 

When choosing self-care activities, choose something that is enjoyable to you. No matter how big or how small, it just matters how it makes you feel. 

Some examples of self-care activities:

• Drinking coffee in the morning on the porch for 10 minutes

• Reading a book for 15 minutes in the evening

• Taking a bath with lavender soap before bedtime

• Mediation/mindful exercises for the first 20 minutes of your day

• Doing your makeup and hair in the morning even if you just dropping the kids off at school

• Journal writing in the morning or evening to reflect on your day

• Going for a run

• hiking/nature watching & many more!

As you can see, self-care looks different for every person! Incorporating those enjoyable activities help improve your quality of life in many ways.  Just start with one simple activity to reap the benefits!