Jul 9 • Self-care is Healthcare
What Does Self-Care Mean to You?
Hey there, beautiful souls! ☀️
I've been thinking a lot about self-care lately and how it shows up differently for each of us. You know what I mean? That phrase "self-care" gets tossed around so much these days – from bubble baths to boundary-setting – but what does it actually mean in our real, everyday lives?
Beyond the Instagram Version of Self-Care
Let's be real for a second. When you hear "self-care," does your mind immediately jump to face masks and fancy candles? Don't get me wrong – I love a good aromatherapy moment! But I've come to realize that true self-care runs so much deeper than the products we buy or the occasional treat.
For me, self-care has evolved to mean honoring what my body, mind, and spirit actually need in any given moment. Sometimes that's rest. Sometimes it's movement. Sometimes it's saying "no" to something that would drain me, even when saying "yes" would be easier.
The Many Faces of Self-Care
I've noticed in our community that self-care takes countless forms:
- For some, it's strict morning routines with meditation and journaling
- For others, it's spontaneous dance breaks between Zoom calls
- Some find it in connection with friends and family
- Others discover it in solitude and silence
There's no "right way" to practice self-care – there's just YOUR way.
When Self-Care Feels Impossible
Can we talk about those seasons when taking care of yourself feels like one more thing on an impossible to-do list? I've been there too.
During those times, I've learned that self-care might look like:
- Five deep breaths before responding to an email
- Drinking a full glass of water
- Stepping outside for two minutes of fresh air
- Being gentle with yourself when you're struggling
Sometimes the most powerful self-care is simply acknowledging that you're doing your best in a difficult moment.
Self-Care as Self-Respect
One of my favorite perspectives on self-care comes from my friend who describes it as "treating yourself with the same kindness and respect you'd offer to someone you deeply love."
That framing changed everything for me. Would I tell someone I love that they don't deserve a break? That their needs don't matter? That they should just push through exhaustion? Of course not!
My Current Self-Care Practices
These days, my personal self-care includes:
- Morning pages (three pages of stream-of-consciousness writing)
- Walking outside without my phone
- Cooking nourishing meals when possible
- Reading fiction before bed instead of scrolling
- Regular check-ins with my therapist
But these practices change with the seasons and circumstances of my life – and that's exactly as it should be.
Your Turn: What Does Self-Care Mean to You?
I'm genuinely curious – how do you define self-care in your life right now? What practices help you feel nourished and supported? And what gets in the way of prioritizing your wellbeing?
Drop a comment below and let's learn from each other! The beautiful thing about our community is that we all bring different wisdom and experiences to the table.
Remember, there's no "perfect" way to practice self-care. The only question that matters is: does it truly support YOUR wellbeing?
With care and curiosity,
April
P.S. In the next weeks, I'll be hosting a community circle in our Skool space where we can dive deeper into this conversation together. Look out for the calendar invite – I'd love to see you there!
3
7 comments
What Does Self-Care Mean to You?
powered by
skool.com/april-joy-wellness-8257
Empowering busy women with simple, effective natural wellness routines through practical herbalism & mindfulness techniques. Join to thrive naturally!
Suggested communities
Powered by