Reimagining self-care: the benefits of regular timeouts

In reading up on the concept of self-care, I stumbled onto a great deal of differing opinions. Some are negative, touting that the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness—particularly during periods of stress—involves putting your own needs ahead of other people’s needs. In other words, self-serving (or selfish) vs. self-care. At the opposite end of the spectrum, however, research supports the ability of self-care to make a positive impact on our health; e.g., through exercise and mindfulness meditation. As I plan my next “Artist’s Date”—one way I refuel my creative (or joy) tank—whether I catch up on my TBR pile, indulge in a spa afternoon or solo trek through the forest or embark on a DIY project, it benefits me and those who I engage with and/or serve during day-to-day life. If you need permission to practice self-care today, here it is: it’s OK to take a timeout.

What’s your favorite self-care practice?

Photo by takwa abdo on Unsplash.