Self-care Defined
What is self-care actually? It's simple, intentional habits that allow you to live a healthier, happier, more joyful life - something that is at the core of Pure Placid.
Now, you might think of manicures, shopping, or spa days, and while I adore them, self-care is about daily care, not just special-occasion care. I know, those special treats are incredible, but self-care is an everyday thing. You can't run yourself ragged all month and expect one at-home pedicure to make you feel rested and refreshed. Instead ask yourself what intention and habits you can add to your daily routine that will make you feel more centered.
Let me share a secret with you: scent
Scent, that magical element that can transport us to different worlds, is a key part of everyday self-care. The scents that surround us play a crucial role in setting our mood and energy. It's a subtle, yet profound way to bring calm, joy, or even a splash of creativity to our lives. The best part is, it’s as simple as breathing in the scent as you wash your hands, taking a moment to enjoy the scent of your hand lotion or lighting a candle and scenting your home.
Self-Care isn't selfishLet me take a moment and remind you that taking care of yourself isn't selfish! It positively impacts everyone around you. It’s necessary.
Think of it like this: Imagine you are a glass vase and someone is pouring a pitcher of water into you. In that pitcher is everything good you could ever need: joy, love, peace, care, etc., and the supply of water in the pitcher is unlimited.
But as women, we tend to try and tip ourselves over so we can pour ourselves out for others.
We pour a little here on our children and a little there on our partner. We keep pouring ourselves out because we want to make sure that everyone is taken care of. It’s a beautiful idea, but what happens to a glass vase if it keeps tipping over? It crashes and breaks. However, if you stand tall and allow yourself to be filled up ... the water will rise up and eventually be so full that it overflows onto everyone around you.
How can you achieve this state of overflow? Schedule time for self care. Find the small things and make space for them. The most important part? Make it happen every single day.
For me, mornings are sacred. My daily routine includes coffee, journaling, meditation, intentions, exercise, and yes, a specially chosen scent to get me focused. These little things, including the power of scent, shape my day, every single day.
The most important part is that it happens every single day. Not when I can squeeze it in or on the odd weekend. Every. Single. Day.
Most importantly, practice self-awareness.
Another tip is to practice self-awareness as it pertains to your emotions. Take note of what events, activities, food, etc., create positive and negative feelings for you.
Why is this important? Because if you’re aware of what’s triggering you or stressing you out or making you anxious, you can remove it from your life or have a plan for how to handle it if it can’t be removed. On the flip side, if you identify the things that make you feel joyful, peaceful, centered or any other positive emotion -- reach for those things!
One of the greatest forms of self care I can imagine is setting up your life in a way that makes it possible for you to thrive.
If that’s our intention it forces us to ask ourselves what we need, more or less, so that we can be more loving and peaceful to ourselves.
