“Self-care is never a selfish act—it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have,
the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.”
~Parker Palmer
the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.”
~Parker Palmer
Many people believe self-care is selfish, costly, and something only spoiled people concern themselves with or worse. These myths continue year after year, causing countless people to live unsatisfactory lives that don’t live up to their needs or desires because they don’t want to appear selfish.
Let’s explore and debunk these myths so you can start putting the focus where it needs to be: On Yourself.
SIX MYTHS ABOUT SELF-CARE
Myth #1: Self-Care is About Pampering Yourself
Plenty of self-care actions feel like pampering because the messages you’ve received throughout your life make it appear self-indulgent. But the truth is, taking a hot bath is not just self-care. It’s also good for you in all the ways that count. It’s the least you can do for yourself after a challenging day.
MYTH #2: SELF-CARE IS ONLY FOR SICK PEOPLE
Many people believe self-care should be reserved for times of illness. However, it’s important to make time in your schedule to care for yourself before you become ill. You can do the basic things, such as eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting good quality sleep, and staying hydrated. The truth is these are the minimum things you can do to care for yourself. You’re not selfish if you put your needs first from time to time. In fact, if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to help others when the need arises.
MYTH #3: SELF-CARE COSTS MONEY
It’s true that in many countries, self-care can cost money. Self-care often includes getting regular checkups from your doctor and dentist, as well as eating right. These types of self-care do cost money. Keep in mind that taking basic actions to care for your mind and body is the least you can do. Prioritize your care with the help of a professional and follow the self-care plan suggestions that you’re given. This helps you save money.
There are many free things you can do to take care of yourself while avoiding unneeded expenditures. As mentioned earlier, you can eat healthy, commit to a form of exercise, sleep 7 to 9 hours a night, take time to relax when you feel stressed, etc. Get creative. If it’s an activity that brings you joy, and peace go for it.
MYTH #4: SELF-CARE IS ONLY ABOUT PLEASURE
Many self-care actions are not pleasurable to everyone all of the time. For instance, you may never like physical exercise. However, if you plan to live a long and comfortable life, you’ll need to exercise at a moderate pace, for a minimum of 150 minutes a week. However, if you just get started your endorphins kick in and you’ll begin to enjoy the activity more, which is why so many people believe this myth.
MYTH #5: SELF-CARE IS SELFISH
Is it selfish to feed your body nutritious food, even as you care for the homeless who are hungry? The answer to this moral dilemma is a resounding no. However, if you don’t eat right and take care of yourself, you may end up becoming less helpful to yourself, your loved ones, and to society sooner than anticipated.
It’s far more selfish to knowingly destroy your existing good health, considering that everyone does not start on an even playing field when it comes to health and self-care.
MYTH #6: SELF-CARE ENSURES PERFECTION
Even if you follow the current science related to self-care and do everything perfectly, you may not reach every goal you set. However, practicing scientifically sound self-care principles will still help you experience a much more contented life and get close to your goals despite the obstacles in your way, provided the goals you set are realistic for you and really what you want based on your principles, morals, and values.
Self-care is important to the quality of life you experience as you grow and age. Remember, your needs are just as important as the needs of others. When you realize that you need some self-care, or a break put yourself first for a change so you can continue to help yourself as well as those around you.
For more self-care thoughts join my Facebook group
A Cup of Positivity.
A Cup of Positivity.
For inspiration to get you through your day check out my book:
Jump into Positivity: 35 Quotes & Affirmations to Empower Women to Love Themselves.
