‘Self-care’ has been all the buzz in recent times. All of us have heard the saying ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup’ and so we need to take self-care very seriously. We need to rid ourselves of the notion that self-care is selfish. It is not. Self-care is making yourself a priority, finding joy and being happy. While all these statements are true, we might be missing the point and as is the way of all buzz words, this one too can be misunderstood.
Before you know it, you might be indulging in fake-care and not self-care. Let me debunk it for you. Self-care is learning to eat right, reduce stress, exercise regularly and take time out for yourself when you need it. It can help your mind, body and soul stay healthy, happy and resilient (psychologytoday.com). Fake care could be sabotaging the very purpose of self-care, where you could be engaging in activities that might temporarily elevate your mood but in the long run may be harmful to either your mind or body.
Have a look at the distinction below and next time you take some time out for self-care, let it be meaningful and not fake!
Ms. Maria Aruldass