What is Self-Care?

We are always told we should take time for self-care, but, what exactly does that mean?

Well, it could mean a LOT of things depending on the person and the circumstances.

Some people think self-care and immediately equate it to massages or pampering oneself with a trip to the spa and thus toss it out of their schedule as it doesn’t seem “necessary”.

Self-care is certainly not just going to the spa or getting a good massage, although those most certainly can be used in self-care.

Self-care is whatever you need it to be at that time. What, in that moment or day or time, is going to reinvigorate you, slow down your mind, or restore your happiness and sense of worth? The answer could be anything!

Maybe journaling makes you feel good. Maybe it’s a walk around your neighborhood. Maybe it’s as little as taking a break from something to do nothing at all.

There is not one set definition of what self-care truly is or means, and the definition you make for yourself can also be everchanging depending on your needs at the time.

We invite you to write down a list of things that help you keep a positive mindset and keep it somewhere nearby so that you can refer to it on a busy or tough day (or a completely normal one!) and say oh yea, a walk would be nice right now.

It’s important to remember that self-care is different for everybody, and is the furthest thing from selfish. We must be servicing ourselves in the best way possible to be available or of service to others. You cannot pour from an empty cup. So go ahead and fill up, the way you know to best!

With Gratitude,

The EMPA Team