What even is Self-Care?

Welcome back! I'm so happy you're here. I wanted to introduce some definitions of words that will be re-occurring on this page pretty often. We might think we know what words mean, but do we really?

First, lets start with self-care. Self-care is defined as the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's health.

Second, we'll define stress. We all know was stress feels like, but it is defined as a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances.

Third, clutter. Clutter is defined as a collection of things lying about in an untidy mess. (We're going to focus on this literally, and mentally.)

Fourth, relaxation. Relaxation is literally the state of being free from tension and anxiety.

Fifth, anxiety. Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.

Sixth, guilt. Guilt is defined as feeling responsible or regretful for a perceived offense, real or imaginary. It can be part of a grief reaction.

Now that we have definitions down, what else is there to self-care? Why is it so important?

Well, self-care can literally have health benefits. When all we do is think about our stressors, it can cause physical headaches. For me, sometimes these turn into migraines. Sometimes, it can lead to an anxiety attack if I don't think I can accomplish it all. When I am feeling overwhelmed, I like to take a step back. I give myself a time limit to just chill, whether that includes taking a bath, scrolling through socials, or just hanging out with my roommates. When it's time to reevaluate, I make a list.

I write down deadlines, how long something will take me, and decide what day I am going to do it.

That's my first tip for self-care. Sometimes we all have to give ourselves a little bit of grace and realize, we cannot think critically 24/7. We need times to be silly, creative, or just not think at all.

These are just a few of the words we'll be seeing a lot on this blog. If there's anything else you'd like to know, feel free to email it to me! I'd love to know what exactly you guys want to see, and the tips that help you take care of you!

Take it easy, one day at a time.