Self-Love is True Self-Care

"Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel."

-Eleanor Brown

Have you ever found yourself feeling guilty for taking time for yourself?

I used to think that self-care meant scheduling a day for pampering, but I soon learned that it's much more than that. Self-care is an investment in your future self, and it can take many forms.

Self-care is not just about bubble baths and face masks. It's about recognizing the needs of our inner child and investing time and money to heal the traumas we carry in our bodies. It's about declaring that we are the most important human being on this planet and that no matter what, we come first.

Investing in our self-care journey can feel overwhelming, but it all starts with recognizing the importance of taking care of ourselves. We must let go of the idea that self-care is selfish and embrace the fact that we cannot serve from an empty vessel.

One of the biggest obstacles to practicing self-care is the "helper type" persona that many of us have adopted. 🚶‍♀️While it may have served us in the past, it no longer serves us and can take years of releasing traumas and programs to overcome.

As we begin our self-care journey, it's important to trust the process and believe that the investment we make in ourselves will benefit not only us but also those around us.

Once we start prioritizing ourselves and our self-care, we naturally emanate self-love and can serve others from an overflow of energy.

Action steps to self-care as self-love:

1. Start small: Begin by dedicating a few minutes each day to a self-care activity that you enjoy. 🍵This could be as simple as enjoying a cup of tea, reading a book, or taking a short walk.

2. Identify your needs: Reflect on what you need to feel nourished and make a plan to prioritize those things. 📝This might involve setting aside time for hobbies, spending time with loved ones.

3. Seek support: Don't be afraid to ask for help or seek guidance on your self-care journey. 🤗Whether it's through therapy, support groups, or talking to friends, seeking support can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

4. Practice mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day to connect with your breath and observe your thoughts without judgment. 🧘‍♂️This can help you cultivate self-awareness and reduce stress. Mindfulness can be a powerful tool in your self-care toolkit.

5. Set boundaries: It's important to set boundaries with others to protect your time and energy. 🚧Identify what you're comfortable with and communicate those boundaries to the people in your life. Remember that saying "no" is an act of self-care.

6. Move your body: Engage in physical activity that you enjoy, whether it's going for a walk, practicing yoga, or dancing. 💃 Moving your body not only has physical benefits but can also improve your mood and overall well-being.

Remember, self-care is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of prioritizing ourselves and investing in our future selves. Take time to reflect on your progress, seek guidance when needed, and continue to make self-care a priority in your life.

Conclusion 🌼

Nurturing ourselves through self-care is an act of self-love that transcends surface-level indulgences. It's a commitment to our well-being, a declaration of our worthiness, and a practice that benefits not just us but everyone around us. By releasing the notion of self-care as selfish and stepping into the role of our own caretakers, we unlock the potential for profound personal growth and positive impact. So, embrace the journey, take those small steps, and remember that each act of self-care is a testament to the love and care we deserve.