“Self-care is about giving the world what’s best of you, instead of what’s left of you.” - Katie Reed
Self-Care: A Lifestyle, Not a Luxury
When you hear the phrase "make time for self-care," do you immediately think of spa days or long vacations? Do you feel frustrated because those things seem impossible to fit into your busy life? The truth is, self-care is often misunderstood. It’s not about grand gestures—it’s about the small, daily actions that sustain your well-being.
Rethinking Self-Care
Self-care is not selfish, nor is it an escape from reality. It’s about creating a life you don’t need to escape from. It’s choosing habits that nourish your body and mind—hydration, sleep, boundaries, and movement. While occasional pampering is great, relying on it as your only form of self-care is a sign that deeper needs aren’t being met.
Shifting your mindset from "self-care as indulgence" to "self-care as sustainability" helps you see it as a necessity, not an afterthought.
Practical Ways to Prioritize Self-Care
Physical Wellness
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration leads to fatigue, irritability, and brain fog. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water daily.
Stretch Your Body: Release tension, improve mobility, and reconnect with your body. Even five minutes makes a difference.
Eat Well: Fuel your body with nutritious foods that support your energy and mood.
Move Regularly: Exercise isn’t just for fitness—it’s an act of self-respect. Even a short walk can boost your mental state.
Get Sunlight: Natural light improves mood, regulates sleep, and increases vitamin D levels. Try stepping outside daily.
Mental and Emotional Wellness
Check Your Inner Dialogue: Your thoughts shape your reality. Speak to yourself with kindness and encouragement.
Protect Your Energy: Notice where your energy is going. Say no to things that drain you and yes to what truly matters.
Set Boundaries: Boundaries are a form of self-respect. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you.
Be Mindful of What You Consume: Social media, news, and even music impact your emotions. Choose wisely.
Make Time for Joy: Reconnect with activities that light you up—music, painting, exploring. Joy isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.
You Do Have Time
The biggest excuse for neglecting self-care is “I don’t have time.” But in reality, small adjustments can fit into even the busiest schedules:
Stretch for five minutes before bed instead of scrolling your phone.
Take a short walk after dinner instead of watching another episode.
Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up.
Combine habits—walk in the sun while listening to an uplifting podcast.
Embracing Self-Care as a Lifestyle
Self-care isn’t something to squeeze in when you’re already burned out—it’s a way of living. When you integrate small, consistent habits into your routine, you build a foundation for long-term well-being.
The key isn’t perfection—it’s consistency. Start small, build momentum, and watch how prioritizing yourself transforms not just your day but your entire life.
With love,
Sara
P.S. Want a guided way to dive deeper into self-care practices? I created the Elevate Your Life Journal specifically for this! Grab your copy on Amazon :)
