We all have responsibilities that require us to stay on task and keep routines that keep our homes and work functioning at their best and most conflict-free levels possible. In the midst of all of that, there comes a time, when your mind and your body gently remind you that you need to refocus and give yourself some care.
Self-care can be very different for each individual. The one thing I have noticed in this past year is that self-care is not always innate. When speaking with a friend or loved one and you part with the words, "take care of yourself," I often wonder if the person really knows how to do that properly.
As I stated, self-care can be different for everyone, but learning what works for you comes with continued practice. I also believe that as you learn it for yourself, you are better able to teach self-care principles to your children so that they might have a cultivated practice of self-care that evolves as they age and that will sustain them for a lifetime.
No offense to my parents, I have wonderful parents! However, they did not really make these kinds of lessons a priority when I was growing up. What was more the priority was adult independence and accountability. Both of these are excellent ideas to prepare a growing child for, but as you understand the need for consistent renewal, as we all are only human, I now understand how to guide my own child in an effort of understanding how to nurture well-being. It's an idea to help foster the being of the best most peaceful self so that you may radiate peace and love to others however you serve them.
I recently read this blog about self-care and was really blessed by it. It was written by Jen Oshman. I highly recommend a read when you have a moment. It very closely aligns with my own ideas of self-care and I have found, for me, seeking time to study and learn more about Jesus, leads me into much refreshment.
The first few verses (in fact the whole chapter) of Psalms 23 is my foundation for self-care. Everything else I do for self-care comes from here.
Let me suggest that you seek your own foundation or motivation for self-care, then build on that foundation for life. You are welcome to begin in Psalms 23 as I have done, or find what works for you.
Just know that you are important! You matter! Your presence and gifts and light are a blessing to those around you. Take care of yourself. We all need you!