Welcome back and a happy mid week to all of you. For many of us a large part of 2020 has been so stressful, and we are trying to figure out different ways to get through the days, weeks, and months. The Covid-19 pandemic has created a new norm for us all and many of us are still trying to figure out the working from home, zoom classes for people in school and the whole mask situation. With this has come increased levels of stress, anxiety, and general feeling of overwhelm. It is very important to stay positive and motivated in this season despite what is going on around us. Self-care does it for me and today I share with you my list of tried and true ways of self-care that are working for me in this season. This helps me so I can care for myself in the best way possible and in turn help and care for the people close to me.

• Spiritual

This has greatly helped ease my mind and keep me in the right frame. Time alone meditating on the promises in the word of God works for me. This changes my perspective and removes my eyes off the turmoil in the world and onto what the Lord is saying. Through this I must say my faith has grown and my hope has been restored and renewed. Other ways I use spiritual to self-care are journaling, connecting with nature, prayer, and bible study with my small group.

• Physical

Physical release is very important now more than ever with us cooped up in our spaces. One thing that has worked for me and continues to work for me is getting enough rest. When I talk about rest, I do not mean only sleeping. Rest as a whole in my mind, my body and all round is a very essential element of self-care. Having periodic rests from social media helps me rest mentally. This is not easy, but the benefits are worth it. Eating good healthy food, hiking, walking, running, working out, stretching etc. are all different ways that you can use to self-care physically.

• Emotional

This one is another big one for me because many times I may not realize I am neglecting my emotional and mental health until I see the effects on my physical body. I have taken a few classes during this season on emotional awareness, emotional maturity, and maintaining good mental health. This focus is not something we gravitate to and I have had to make a conscious effort to self-care in this area. Dealing with emotions like unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, etc. and replacing them with positive emotions help boost your emotional health. I look for ways to manage my stress levels, so I am not overwhelmed by everything and I protect and take care of my mental space and refuse to accept unnecessary stressors.

“Self care means giving yourself permission to pause.” Cecilia Tran

• Social

Under the social ways to self-care, my highlight is my support system. Words fail me when I think of all the ways my support system has helped keep me sane and strong in my weakest moments. It is important to have the right support system who have your best interests at heart and lift you up when you need the support. Setting healthy boundaries with yourself and with people around you is another big way to self-care. This helps set basic guidelines on how you want to be treated and that the relationships around you are respectful and supportive. Other ways I self-care under social is watching inspiring and positive social media, good movies, connecting and communicating with family and friends.

• Miscellaneous

The ways to self-care are endless and here are bonus ways that I self-care. Reading a good book, listening to music, dancing, having a home spa time, using essential oils, lighting a candle while I soak in the tub etc.

At the end of the day, self-care comes down to different ways that you care for yourself. In the beginning it might not come easy but when you do find what works for you, go ahead, and take good care of you. Never forget you are important, you matter, and there is only one you out here. What are some of the ways you like to self-care? Share with me different ways you are caring for yourself in this season. I love you all and until next time.

~xo~

Kate