Conversations Around Self-Care

Self-care is a term that has become so common that its significance can sometimes be diluted. Self-care is highly personal, and what may work for one person may have the opposite effect on another. Furthermore, as the trend of prioritizing self-care grows, individuals may find themselves feeling overwhelmed by the various ways they are expected to practice self-care efficiently. The questions arise: Must self-care always yield results? Who dictates the guidelines for self-care? Is self-care exclusive to certain individuals? Is self-care considered a right or a privilege? Only accessible to those who are privileged enough to indulge in it? What about those who have other responsibilities, such as raising children or pursuing a career? Is self-care only about consuming? These are the questions that may make one feel paralyzed into believing they don't deserve self-care or stop them from prioritizing it.

Self-care does not need to yield results: we are able to create our own meanings in whatever process we choose to take.

The only guidelines for self-care are that we try not to harm ourselves or those around us.

We all have the right to practice self-care and are entitled to a balanced healthy life.

Considering self-care as both a right and a privilege can be complex. While it is true that everyone is entitled to it, not everyone has the means. For instance, a woman with a salary might have the opportunity to finish work early on Fridays to attend a fitness class, whereas someone on an hourly wage might risk not being able to afford rent if they leave work an hour early.

Juggling responsibilities and deciding what to focus on can be a continuous challenge, particularly when you have obligations towards your family or colleagues. Increased responsibilities bring about more stress, underscoring the importance of allocating time for self-care. This not only enhances our own well-being but also enables us to be the best possible versions of ourselves for those around us.

Again, I have to stress about creating our own meaning around self-care. In Western patriarchal and capitalist society, self-care is often perceived as excessive consumerism rather than being recognized as an act of self-love. Self-care is not always about buying something to make you feel better (even though for some, buying that ice chai latte IS self-love, which I definitely respect ;) For some, self-care is walking in the park, watching a movie, or taking time to pet their dog.

Self-care should be intentional, meaningful, and beneficial for you and your standards.

Let me know in the comments your thoughts and ideas around self-care and your favorite way to love yourself :)

-Julie