Self-care isn’t about putting on a face mask or stewing in a bathtub. It’s about time.
“Self-care” is caring for your 'self'. It’s the practice of a continuous learning journey where you show kindness to your soul, appreciating all that it does for you. Self-care is like being in a happy marriage with your mind. There are some gestures that can signal moments of that happy marriage. Whether that’s taking a long nice bath, cooking yourself a wholesome meal, or putting on a film and painting your nails, it’s about giving yourself that much-needed time and attention. The time you think you don’t deserve, but you do. The time you think you don’t have, but you do. Giving yourself a break, a pamper, and a whole lot of love.
This morning, I did the same. I stayed in my pj's, made a hearty breakfast, put on Goonies, and painted my nails. The pure sense of relief and happiness, I was feeling I knew I had to share it. I have been working almost day and night on ENSEMBLE, balancing that with numerous job applications and getting through this pandemic day-by-day. I was exhausted.
So, I switched off. I took a day off Instagram, went on a run, wrote some articles, and had a “lazy” morning the next day. We live in a time where it’s all about the hustle. We are almost made to feel guilty if we aren’t consumed in work or busy with our big life goals. Having challenging goals is amazing! It pushes you. It exercises your mind. But, that doesn’t mean it should overwhelm you. Life is about being healthy, mentally, and physically.
I would encourage you to pause. Take a moment. Think. During your average working week, when do you take time out to care of yourself? Do you? Whether that’s picking up a new language you’ve always wanted to learn, going for a bike ride, or painting your nails - give yourself the time. You deserve it.
I talk more about how to deal with stress, especially in a world where the pandemic is the new norm. It will all be in my new issue of ENSEMBLE. To get your free digital copy, make sure you sign up for your “Weekly pick-me-up” letter on the homepage, and I will personally notify you when the issue is available.
In the meantime, be kind to yourself and those around you! And, pause.
Lots of love,
Ishani
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