Feb 8
What, Exactly, IS “Self Care?”
Daily Meditation #348–2/7/2023
Self care is a term that is, frankly, too broadly used and misunderstood.
For many of us, we view it as relaxing, enjoying a frozen pizza, and maybe a binge run of The Office for the 7th time.
And, maybe that is self care sometimes.
But, I think it’s actually harder work than that.
Anyone can sit on their duff, eat bon bons and watch TV. That’s effortless. That’s easy.
Care is something we do with intention.
A carton of eggs may say “handle with care,” and that means we act in a specific way. With intention.
In short — Self Care is mostly WORK.
It is caring enough to do what you know you need to do.
Self care is getting enough steps every day.
Self care is taking time periodically to review your bills and budget.
Self care is talking with your spouse and children about difficult things.
Self care is actually following your hygiene, daily — shaving, etc.
Self care is dressing in a way that brings you confidence while retaining your reputation.
Self care is taking the time to keep track of most of your calories most days.
Self care is reading. Every day. Even if it’s just a Bible chapter or a page of Harry Potter.
Self care is ensuring you eat enough fiber and vegetables.
Self care is (stereotypically!) drinking enough water.
Self care is skipping alcohol — or at least drinking it very sparingly.
Self care is learning to cook and bake. And then cooking and baking at home more.
Self care is getting up at the same time every single morning.
Self care is going to bed around the same time every single night.
Self care is being mindful of how much time you sink into social media.
In closing — self care isn’t the “feel good” stuff all the time. In fact, that’s the minority of the time.
Self care is hard. Damn hard.
Because it’s stuff you must do to care for yourself and it won’t always be now. A lot of it is sacrifices now in order that your future you is set up better!
Want to “self care?” Care enough to do what is hard, but you know is RIGHT!
What do you think “self care” is?
Follow for daily philosophical meditations.
These are distillations from my coming book “YouDaimonia: the Ancient Philosophy of Human Flourishing.”
