What is Self Care? and isn't it Selfish?

Self care is active participation in enhancing the quality of your health — physical and mental. Some people may think that nurturing the self is only for the sick, weak and wounded which couldn't be further from the truth. Vibrantly healthy happy balanced people often achieve and maintain such a quality of life because they are already practicing "self care." Is that selfish? Just like the airplane safety message states, you must apply the oxygen mask to yourself first before helping those around you.

The North Caroline State Student Health Center website eloquently says, "Self care is an approach to living that incorporates behaviors that refresh you, replenish your personal motivation, and help you grow as a person. It’s the equivalent of keeping your car filled with gas so that you are ready to motor any time. When adjusting to different circumstances, stress will help or hinder us depending on how we react to it."

The three main categories of self care and examples of each are:

PHYSICAL
Getting exercise in any modality from an intense spin class to a simple walk outside.
Getting a massage, acupuncture or chiropractic treatment.
Following through on routine doctors appointments and more as needed when sick.
Requesting a long hug from a trusted friend.
Getting rest and relaxation when you feel tired.
Implementing sleep rituals conducive to better quality sleep.
Honoring what foods your body is hungry for and practicing moderation.

MENTAL/EMOTIONAL
Spend time with unconditionally loving friends who reciprocate your efforts in being a reliable friend.
Treat yourself with the same kindness you would your best friend.
Eliminate many of the "shoulds" from your to do list and start with setting reasonable expectations.
Revisit some hobbies and activities you used to love doing as a kid like creative collage, writing, making music and acting.
Spend time in nature breathing in fresh air at least once a day.
Actually take a lunch break not at your desk.
Pet animals.
Watch or engage in something that makes you laugh.

SPIRITUAL/METAPHYSICAL
Spend some time exploring a practice that exercises your mind existentially like prayer or meditation.
Read passages on mindfulness, religion, poetry or recite mantras.
Spend time with people or in a setting conducive to discussing your interests to better build up and identify your values, beliefs and priorities.
Find a way such as volunteering or simply holding the door for a stranger to contribute to the well being of others.
Add up at least three different things you are grateful for every day.