Rethinking Self-Care
Self-care is a term that's on everyone's lips, but the way we often interpret it could lead us astray. Let’s dive into what real self-care looks like and why it’s important to get it right.
The Commercialization of Self-Care
When you hear "self-care," what comes to mind?
A luxurious spa day, a relaxing vacation, or buying something nice on Amazon?
It's easy to link self-care with these indulgent activities. That's what marketers and the media have sold us.
Self-care should focus on nurturing physical and emotional well-being.
Redefining Self-Care
For me, self-care is not about luxurious experiences or expensive products.
Proper self-care is first about meeting our most basic needs - it’s like taking care of yourself.
Think about the times you've cared for someone else, such as a child or an elderly relative. Your focus was on their well-being, security, and physical comfort.
The same principles should apply to our own care.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: A Guide to Genuine Self-Care
To better understand self-care, let’s look at Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.
Maslow’s pyramid begins with basic needs at the bottom. It rises to self-actualization at the top.
Physiological needs: Bas…