The Declaration of You will be published by North Light Craft Books this summer, with readers getting all the permission they’ve craved to step passionately into their lives, discover how they and their gifts are unique and uncover what they are meant to do! This post is part of The Declaration of You’s BlogLovin’ Tour, which I’m thrilled to participate in alongside over 100 other creative bloggers. Learn more — and join us! — by clicking here.
How often do you actually take time for self-care? It’s often the last thing on our list of priorities because there’s a lot of guilt and shame around taking time for yourself. I think the wisdom of taking care of yourself comes with age and that is certainly true in my life. In my younger years, it seemed easy to plow through and push myself to the max with seemingly little consequences. Pulling all-nighters wasn’t such a horrible thing or skipping lunch didn’t seem to slow me down too much.
But I remember one night during highschool my mom came into my room and told me school didn’t matter as much as my health and that I should go to sleep. I should mention that doing well in school is paramount in my family – I mean – it was expected. So this declaration of self-care from my mom was a turning point for me. Ever since then I’ve constantly been reminded of her wisdom – yes, mama knows best.
Maybe I’m just an old curmudgeon or maybe all the past neglect is finally catching up with me. Self-care is not just a nice to do, it’s a must do for my life. It’s not just about NOT wearing yourself out – physically or emotionally – but also about taking time to nourish yourself as well. I think you need to schedule self-care time into your life.
We all perform maintenance for your cars and gadgets, why not for your own body, mind and soul?
This year I become a mommy and I’m constantly reminded of how important it is to take time for myself. Sure I want to spend time with my cute little boy, but if I’m so worn out and tired, I’m barely engaging as a mom should. Realize that you won’t be able to take care of your loved ones if you aren’t ship shape! I know that I’m also pretty bad company when I’m frustrated and overwhelmed. Grumpy, snippy and just not at 100%. You have to do justice to yourself – don’t live your life as a run-down version of YOU – live at 110%!
Self-care is necessary and brings more good into your life – so it’s totally worth it. Take care of yourself so that you are fully present in whatever you do. You’ll be a happier and healthier person and it literally makes the world a better place. We’ve all experienced it before… because when you take the time to relax, the world is better through your rested eyes.
So when was the last time you scheduled in some necessary self-care time? Manicure, pedicure? Spa day? Quick massage? Ten minutes of meditation? A walk in the park? It can be a big thing, it can be a small thing. Just make sure you do it. Truly enjoy your self-care time and fully immerse yourself in relaxation. Like any other important task in your life – make the time to take care – your body will thank you for it!
My favorite self-care routines? Walks in nature with the family, snuggling up with my honey for a favorite show, drinking iced coffee and doodling. Just to mention a few. What’s are yours?
