The Importance of Self-Care: Prioritizing Your Needs for Improved Health and Happiness

Self-care is a word that has been bandied around a lot lately, especially in the fitness community. However, most of us don't really know what it means. In this blog post, I'll define self-care as the need to take care of ourselves.


Why does self-care matter?

It matters because it's essential for our mental and physical health and overall happiness. Without taking care of ourselves, we won't be able to reach our full potential and contribute to the world around us.

When does self-care happen?

Self-care happens all the time, but it doesn't always feel like it. It can feel like something we should be doing, but it isn't always possible.

It also doesn't matter if you're working full-time. It's possible to have self-care when you have a busy schedule.

What does self-care look like?

There's not just one answer to this question. Everyone needs to find what works for them. The following are examples of how I practice self-care:

Go outside

Play with my dog

Meditate

Talk with my husband

Take a walk

Plan a date night with my husband

Watch Netflix

Read

Cook

These are all things I can't necessarily fit into my schedule, but they are essential to feeling happy. They are part of my self-care routine.

Are you taking care of yourself?

Are you making sure that you're getting enough sleep and exercise? Are you avoiding negative stressors that might be interfering with your mood and happiness?

If the answer is no, then you may need to adjust your priorities and focus on self-care before anything else. Don't wait until you're unhappy to take care of yourself.