Listen to this episode on the Pgh Dreamer’s Pod

Self-care has been one of those buzzwords for at least the last decade. If you’re not getting enough of it, you’re made to feel less than – you need to buy this cream, you need to take this trip, why aren’t you putting yourself first? On the flip side, if you’re doing too much, you’re often viewed as selfish or a loner. You could be doing so much more with your time than soaking in a tub for an hour!

All negative connotations aside, self-care is something that should bring you joy without guilt. Perhaps a farfetched idea, but I’d like to believe there is something that fits those criteria for you personally. Additionally, the idea that self-care has to be luxurious or isolate you from your responsibilities for weeks at a time is preposterous.

Something as simple as popping a piece of chocolate after lunch is self-care. A stand up and stretch from your desk chair for 30 seconds is self-care. Hell, a deep breath is self-care. The smallest of small counts as taking care of you.

My own self-care ranges from dancing to petting my cats to reading before bed to ordering takeout. None of these typically break the bank and most of them maybe take me away from my family for a short burst of time. Sure, I like to indulge on some new decorations or take a girls’ trip, but those aren’t everyday activities. Instead, I really listen to my body and mind. If I’m dragging from a super busy work week, Friday evenings may include sitting on the couch with a pizza, a book, a cat, and some cuddly children. If I’m sore after a rough workout, self-care can be as simple as elevating my legs before bed for a few minutes or rolling my back against a foam roller.

Self-care should be a daily treat for yourself. A reason to smile. A way to ease stress and add comfort to your day. A way to make you feel good in your body and brain. Because at the end of it, you’re the only one that can take care of you.

What is included in your self-care? I’d love to hear from you!