Page 7 - Official March Newsletter

Thoughts on Self Care

Self-care is arguably the most important thing you can do for yourself. The
author of one of my favorite blogs, Suzy Rigby Speaks (suzyrigby.wordpress.com), is
practically an expert on this topic and, with a new series on self-care debuting in
M arch, was kind enough to help me learn more. What is self-care? Self-care is
nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.

Is it taking a shower and brushing your teeth and moisturizing your face? Yes. Is
it eating healthy food, with the occasional celebratory (or contemplative, Golden
Girls style) cheesecake? Yes. Even going to the gym? Yes.

Self-care is also standing in front of the mirror and cheering yourself on or
texting yourself encouraging words. Self-care can also be snapping selfies, just
because, from just the right angle and with just the right filter. Putting down the
crying baby (in a safe place) and stepping out the front door for a minute or two of
silence to catch your breath is also self-care. M aybe it?s going to the grocery store
alone or hot shower or hiding in the closet to eat a bowl of ice cream alone.
Self-care is taking yourself to dinner and a movie or a road trip adventure or
hiking alone. It may be turning up your favorite music and creating a living room
dance party. Grab a craft kit (many less than $5!)
Why is self-care so important? If you don?t take care of YOU, you cannot take
care of anyone else. You can for a time, but not for long. Think of it like staying
awake. Sure, you can function with little to no sleep. But what about your mood?
A fter 3 nights of 2 hours of sleep, are you cheerful and attentive or grumpy and
foggy?
Take yourself for a walk. Buy yourself flowers. Put down computer when you
are frustrated. Leave your cell phone in the car. Pull out the crayons and color a
coloring book. Write a snail-mail letter. Stretch out in the grass and watch the
clouds or stars. Say no. Intentionally share a smile. Grab a dry-erase marker and
draw on your mirror. Read a book. M editate. Learn a new hobby. Take an
introductory class in anything you?ve ever wanted ? scuba diving, art, yoga,
karate? . Enjoy a night in a hotel. Find a retreat center, museum, or nature center
to visit and unwind.
I noticed a friend was having a hard time, so I put together a little goody bag for
her. Lavender Bath Salts, a funny movie (M adea!), her favorite candy, a small
counted cross-stich mermaid, and a gift card for a curbside to go dinner. I spent $25
on a friend. Would I spend the same on myself? That is so tough! I have to remind
myself that it is ok to spend money on me! I put in the long hours and effort! So I
bought myself a small cross-stitch owl. I have surprised myself with a desire to
unwind and cross-stich (despite the mental picture of an old lady me, in a rocking
chair!) in silence, instead of watching television.

Life is hard. Be your own best friend. Take care of YOU!

Dr. Suzanne M inarcine
Director
Citizens' High School