We have all heard many times how important self-care is, but finding the time to care for ourselves can be another challenge. It can be hard to schedule in “me time” while juggling demands, deadlines, family life, a career, and other commitments.

We often put ourselves and our well-being at the bottom of the to-do list, especially if we have a tendency to want to please others. The repercussions of consistently putting ourselves last, however, are significant. We run the risk of becoming physically and emotionally depleted over time, and we show others around us that our own well-being is not a priority.

There are many benefits of self-care:

  • It helps ensure that we are creating time for ourselves with activities we enjoy

  • It replenishes our well-being to help us feel recharged

  • It provides a cushion to protect against negative experiences and thoughts

  • It allows us to take time to focus on and learn more about ourselves

  • It reduces our resentment when we help or give to others

  • It gives us a break and allows us to take a step back from the fast paced world

You can do a number of things for self-care and everyone has different ways to engage in fulfilling activities. It can be reading a book, having a bubble bath, catching up with friends, watching TV, journaling, going for a walk, cooking, turning off gadgets, good sleep hygiene, and much more.

Self-care is any activity that makes you feel good, and that allows you to pause and feel replenished.

I encourage you to take some time out to engage in self-care. If you are not used to investing in yourself, try giving yourself permission to schedule time in your calendar and setting reminders to set time aside for you!