What is Self-Care, Anyway? Posted on May 18, 2018May 18, 2018 by AspireNB Self-care has been getting more press lately, but it still might sound confusing. The definition of self-care, according to Christine Meinecke, Ph.D, is “choosing behaviors that balance the effects of emotional and physical stressors.” Self-care is important for everyone, and a pre-requisite for connecting in a meaningful way. If you are a healer of any kind (mothering, fathering, teaching and caregiving definitely count!) it is important to be more purposeful about your own self-care, especially if you feel you lack the time. Self-care is the first step to standing your sacred ground, and creating better, more empowered connections in – and outside of – your work. Here are 4 helpful areas to keep in mind when adding a self-care routine into your life: 1) Write down 5 reasons to care for YOU, EVEN WHEN _______________. In other words, what makes YOU unique, helpful, inspiring? When you are at your best, in your “zone” what do you look like? These will be great reminders for why self-care rituals & breaks are important; even when ________ (meetings, state tests, playoffs, deadlines, etc…) 2) Begin to pay attention to when you need more self-care, and what those signs are. What do you look like, sound like, feel like when you need more self-care (this is your “shadow self”; the traits you might hate to admit you have, but that are there -just simply part of being a human!). 3) Find your team. It is important to know who is in your inner circle, who you can count on to be on your self-care team. Whether they are family or friends, these are YOUR people, who you can count on when you are stuck. Aim for at least 3-5, and write their phone numbers down too. 4) Try lots of different types of self-care, and find what works best for you. When you find things that work well, make a note of what they are- and ideally, schedule them in your calendar! Want ideas? Here are several healthy self-care options: Eating healthfully Box Breathing Exercise Getting enough sleep Acknowledging our needs Setting healthy boundaries Making a plan for a goal Grounding yourself in the present moment Connecting with others Listening to uplifting music Laughing Playing games with friends Saying no to extra requests Counseling Understanding needs you might have at work, and how to create rituals in your day to meet those needs Leaving work at work Spending time outside Scheduling the week ahead on Sunday mornings Reading for fun Gardening Dancing Watching a funny movie with a friend Singing Cooking Baking Joining a support group Taking a trip/vacation Getting a massage Watching a sunset Playing an instrument Meditation & prayer Petting an animal Lighting candles Smiling Assess your SUDS Do your chores (yes, really!) Keeping letters & notes from former bosses or employees to remind you of your strengths Thanks for reading! -Gillian *** Gillian Amaro, LPC-S I believe that we, as individuals, can create joy, love, and purpose in our lives through authentic connection. I love empowering women, couples & teens to feel comfortable with who they are & gain insight about how they connect with others. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & Supervisor and offer individual, family & couples sessions, as well as group therapy. My passion for counseling & healthy communication includes stepping out of the office to facilitate workshops and CEU trainings. *** 392 W. Mill St. New Braunfels, TX 78130 www.aspireNB.com Facebook: @AspireNewBraunfels Gillian’s profile on Psychology Today Aspire NB on Facebook