Self-Care: What It Is and Why It’s Important

Self-care is a popular topic nowadays. 

Unfortunately, it is often poorly explained.

It is likely that you have read about it in magazines and self-help books yet it is also possible that you still don’t have a clear idea what it’s about or how you should apply it in your life.

For many who are not familiar with self-care and its importance, they probably assume their resources are best saved for looking after others.

The Lowdown on Self-Care

Self-care is a broad term that refers to just about anything that you do to be good and look after yourself.

In other words, it is all about being kind to yourself as you are to others.

Self-care also involves knowing when your resources are running low and knowing when to replenish them rather than just allow them to get depleted.

Self-care also includes incorporating self-compassion into your life so you can prevent even the slightest possibility of burnout.

When done accordingly, self-care will provide long-term benefits for both the mind and the body.

The Benefits of Self-Care

You’re probably asking yourself why is self-care important? 

Self-care has many benefits. 

Let’s explore some of the most phenomenal benefits of self-care:

Better productivity 

When you look after yourself, you are able to say “no” to things that overextend you and have more time for things that matter to you. You are able to focus on your goals and accomplish more.

Improved immune system

There is evidence that indicates self-care activities can activate your parasympathetic nervous system or PNS. This means your body is restful and rejuvenated and your immune system is fortified.

Better physical health

When you look after yourself and practice self-care, you will have fewer cases of flu, colds, and an upset stomach. You will also experience less stress and build a stronger immune system. 

Increased self-knowledge

Practicing self-care will also require that you indulge in things and activities that you love doing. Figure out what makes you feel inspired and passionate so you can understand yourself better. At times, increased self-knowledge can even spark a change that’s long overdue.

Enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem

When you regularly set aside time to meet your own needs and treat yourself kindly, you are able to also send a positive message to your subconscious. When you practice self-care, you treat yourself like you have intrinsic value and that you matter. This can help discourage self-talk and silence the critical inner voice once and for all.

More to give

While looking after yourself can seem selfish, it is actually the opposite. Being kind to yourself gives you the resources to be compassionate to others. You can liken it to filling a bucket. You can fill other people’s buckets if yours is empty to begin with.

Self-Care Ideas

Looking for self-care ideas you can try? Start with the following:

  1. Go on a lunch or dinner date with a friend or loved one.
  2. Sign up for a class to meet new people and learn new skills.
  3. Watch an episode of your favorite TV show.
  4. Reflect and bask on your wins and achievements.
  5. Laugh.
  6. Watch inspirational and motivational videos and speeches.
  7. Start a gratitude journal.
  8. Drink 8 glasses of water daily.
  9. Do a 24-hour digital detox.
  10. Donate to charity.

Over to You

By now, you probably already know how important self-care is. That said, try incorporating one (or all) into your life and watch how your life can change for the better.

Photo by José Luis Photographer from Pexels