I’ve been working on me lately, and it’s been an interesting journey. I tend to stay lost in my stories, my ass planted in the chair, laptop on my… well, in my lap, and I won’t move for hours. And I eat a lot of junk food, drink too much coffee and some nights too much whiskey. However, over the past few weeks, I’ve tried to get to bed at a decent hour, wake on a regular schedule, cut back on some of the whiskey. The coffee will never go away. It’s my lifeline, right up there with the girls. However, I’ve discovered that in the fast-paced world we live in, practicing self-care has become more crucial than ever if I intend on finishing all the books that fill my idea folder. It’s not just a fleeting trend; it’s a fundamental aspect of maintaining our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Self-care goes beyond bubble baths and spa days—although, I’ll be honest, I love bubble baths—it’s about deliberately and consistently nurturing ourselves on multiple levels. By setting aside time for self-care, we grant ourselves permission to recharge, rejuvenate, and cultivate a sense of balance that allows us to face life's challenges with resilience. Basically, it keeps us from going crazy and banging our heads against the wall.
So, I started doing research and keeping notes on all the ways I can make myself a better, all-around person. Self-care encompasses a wide range of activities and practices, all aimed at nourishing our minds, bodies, and souls. It can be as simple as taking a leisurely walk in nature, engaging in deep-breathing exercises, or savoring a cup of herbal tea while reading a book. Equally important is setting healthy boundaries, learning to say no without guilt, and prioritizing restful sleep. Self-care isn't selfish; it's an act of self-preservation that equips us to show up for ourselves and others in a more present and authentic manner. And as a friend once told me, if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of those you love.
Amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, self-care acts as a buffer against burnout and stress. And there’s a lot of that these days. It allows us to detach from the constant demands of work and responsibilities, reminding us that our worth isn't solely tied to our productivity. Engaging in hobbies we’re passionate about, whether it’s painting (I can’t draw stick figures but I have fun trying), playing a musical instrument (I want to learn to play the guitar), or practicing yoga (There’s no way my body can bend like that), provides an avenue for self-expression and a healthy outlet for emotional release. By regularly indulging in activities that bring us joy, we fuel our sense of purpose and foster a positive relationship with ourselves.
Prioritizing self-care is an ongoing journey for me that requires mindfulness and self-awareness. It involves cultivating self-compassion and recognizing that we deserve kindness, care, and love from ourselves. As we embrace self-care practices, we cultivate a sense of self-worth that extends to all areas of our lives. Whether it's setting aside designated “me time” on a daily basis or planning occasional self-care retreats, each intentional act contributes to our overall well-being. Remember, self-care isn't a luxury—it's an essential investment in our long-term health and happiness. And we need to practice it without feeling guilty. As a matter of fact, I think I’ll grab some tea and hit the pool for few lazy laps. See you next week!
Until next time, happy reading!
Robbie & the FGR Team