Self-care is not vanity.
Jonathan Van Ness, Over The Top
Oh, whoa. Teresa and I agreed that “what do you think when you hear self-care?” would be a great prompt coming out February. You know, self-care and that holiday focused on love and appreciation? We’d apply it to ourselves and have a great topic to explore.
And look at where things are now.
Clara Parkes called the current state of affairs “a rising panic in my soul”.
That is exactly how I feel. It’s anxiety+.
Our self-care routines are being tested. Over the last week, I’ve slipped into the news-panic-anxiety-self soothing spiral that isn’t much help. I’m in emergency self-care mode these days, and it’s all about back to basics.
Here are my three go-to self-care truths:
- Action cures fear: If I have a mantra, this is it. Doing something reminds me I have agency. Sometimes that action is taking a walk, listening to uplifting music, taking a bath, calling my elected representative. Small actions add up. All we have to do in each moment is the next right thing.
- Minimize info intake: Constant news, social media and talking about what’s making me anxious doesn’t help unless it is prompting a new decision or action.
- Maximize wind and water: Simple solutions are often the best solutions. Taking deep breaths and drinking enough water are game-changing habits.
Be gentle with yourself and be kind to others.
