Self care can at times seems indulgent, however I have begun to think of it more as an investment. I most times run around taking care of others and leaving virtually nothing for myself. This in turn does nothing but make me tired, angry and not a benefit to anyone, much less myself.
My favorite part of the definition of the word, invest, is to bring profit. So why can't you invest in yourself much like you do money. If taking time for yourself makes you better for yourself and others, it seems like the best investment in the world.
Even just recently I had a couple of people come to me frustrated with others because of something that they did or didn't do that exploited them. I am commonly a sounding board for people with these frustrations in life for some reason, probably because I to have gotten wrapped up in what is fair and what is right. Were these "explotative," people, "bad people?" I don't know. Did they cross a line? I don't know. Where they, "not fair?" Again I don't know. They were being them. They are their own person. One of the hardest lessons I've ever learned is you cannot control another person AT ALL. Sure there are manipulations, but the only person who you have sole control over is yourself. Sure it is frustrating and sometimes maddening, but when engaging there is only one person you have control over and can maneuver to a better place.
People are unhappy. Even in times when we are completely being satiated that is a momentary feeling of pleasure unless we re-frame our minds to a place where we can just be. Where we aren't a squirrel looking for that last nut or striving for more and more. I have found (and it is still a work in process) that framing your mind to just be, it a much more healthy head space to be in. To not worry, is the greatest gift I've ever given myself.
It is the greatest feeling in the world and sure I slip out of it at times and I will always give, but instead of pushing myself to extremes to give to everyone, I also take care of myself and foster more time on my relationships that nourish me as well. Remember the blog on narcissists? It is important to understand those types of relationships, but go after the ones that are reciprocal. That journey begins in one place however... YOU.
Today's Self Care
1. I ran 2 miles
2. I napped with my cat
3. I took a leisurely stroll to my local plant nursery.
4. I did restorative yoga
5. I reinvested in myself.
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