Getting Real About Self Care

Let's talk about self-care, but let's ditch the fluffy, Instagram-perfect version and get real for a minute. We're not aiming for some unattainable level of blissful zen! We're talking about sustainable, practical strategies that fit into the messiness of real life. Because honestly, if you're waiting for a perfectly quiet Sunday afternoon to finally "prioritize yourself," you're going to be waiting a long, long time.

The truth is, self-care isn't a luxury; it's a necessity, like brushing your teeth or getting enough sleep, and let's be honest, we all probably neglect those things too sometimes. It's about those small, consistent choices that keep you from running on fumes and collapsing. First, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: self-care looks different for everyone, and it’s not a competition. What works for your best friend might leave you feeling restless and annoyed. So, before you dive into a trendy new routine, let's focus on listening to what your body and mind actually need. Are you constantly exhausted?

Maybe you need to listen to that nagging voice telling you to go to bed earlier. Do you feel overwhelmed all the time? Start saying "no" to things that drain you, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. And I know, that sounds easier said than done. But trust me, learning to protect your energy is a game-changer. It's not selfish; it's survival. And it's okay to re-evaluate what works because what you need will change over time. Let’s be brutally honest about the “treat yourself” aspect.

Sometimes, self-care does look like a face mask and a bubble bath. And if that recharges you, great! But if it feels like another chore on your never-ending to-do list, it’s not serving you. Don't fall into the trap of thinking you need to spend a lot of money or time to practice self-care. Sometimes it's about putting your phone down for thirty minutes and just staring out the window. Sometimes it's about taking a walk, even when you'd really rather stay curled up on the couch. Sometimes it's about having a good cry because suppressing emotions is exhausting.

It's about those tiny pockets of kindness you carve out for yourself in the midst of a hectic day, permitting yourself to be human, imperfections and all. Let’s review practical strategies because vague platitudes don't pay the bills or get the dishes done. Setting realistic boundaries is crucial. This means learning to say "no" without feeling guilty, and sticking to those boundaries even when it's hard. This also applies to technology. Doomscrolling before bed? That’s not self-care. Set limits for social media or news, and make your bedroom a screen-free zone if possible. And I know you've heard it a million times, but movement is not optional. You don't need to run a marathon; a 15-minute walk around the block can make a difference.

It's about working with your body, not against it. Find an activity you genuinely enjoy, not just one you feel you should do. Speaking of enjoyment, make sure you're scheduling things that bring you joy, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day. Finally, let's not shy away from the harder parts. Self-care also means facing the parts of ourselves we’d rather ignore. It might mean working through past traumas, addressing unhealthy coping mechanisms, or seeking help from a mental health professional. There's no shame in admitting you’re struggling, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. This journey is never linear.

There will be good days and bad days, moments where you feel like you've finally figured it out, and other moments where you feel like you're back at square one. And that's okay. The key is to keep showing up for yourself, and to keep making those small, intentional choices that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. So, ditch the pressure of perfection, embrace the messy reality of life, and focus on making self-care an integral part of our everyday existence, one imperfect step at a time. It’s not about being perfect; it's about being present and kind to yourself, just like you would be to a friend. And trust me, you deserve that kindness.

Jay Lane Renowned Canadian psychic medium, coach, inspirational speaker, and educator Jay Lane has built a global reputation serving high-profile celebrities, individuals, and corporate clients. She has frequently appeared as a host and guest on numerous television programs, including CNN Headline News, and as a regular guest on SiriusXM radio. https://mediumjaylane.com