Let me begin this by clearing up a common misconception: Self-care is not synonymous
with being selfish. Self-care encourages you to maintain a healthy relationship with
yourself, and it can promote many positive health outcomes. From being better
equipped to manage stress, to even living longer; practicing regular self-care is essential
to your overall wellness.
Many of us have so much going on everyday, and so many responsibilities, that our
personal needs are often overlooked. Pair that with the common myth that self-care is
simply self indulgence, and that leads to far too many of us not taking any time to
nourish our own wellbeing.
About eight out of ten Americans say they frequently or sometimes encounter stress in
their daily lives. Yes, while self-pampering does not necessarily lead to all of your stress
magically melting away, routine self-care is known to trigger a relaxation response, and,
in turn, can prevent chronic stress from damaging your health. Chronic stress can lead
to things like frequent colds, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, and eventually lead
you straight to a burnout. Now, more than ever, is the time for us to get rid of the stigma
behind self-care, and carve out time from all the activities of our fast-paced lives
-whether it be caregiving, working, or a combination of both- to take care of the one
person whose needs we much too often overlook: ourselves.
So, the hard part is settled, you deserve self-care! We all know you do. Problem is, where
do you start?
Coming from my experience as an esthetician, skin care is one very easy, and gratifying
way you can begin your journey of self-care. Your skin is one of the first things people
see when they meet you. It’s your first impression, not to mention your body’s largest
organ! Your skin is a direct reflection of what is happening in mind, body, and spirit.
Something as simple as introducing a new ritual, with elevated skincare products, can
leave you feeling cared for, nurtured, and ready to take on the day, all while putting
yourself first, even if just for 5 minutes.
One of my personal favorite self-care rituals is an acupressure point facial massage ( I
also include it in facials with my clients, and always encourage them to incorporate it
into their home routine!) Not only does it help relax your facial muscles, it gets your
blood circulation going, and boosts your lymphatic system. This is a perfect, quick,
mindful way to bring you clarity and focus, while detoxing and draining away any water
retention or puffiness from the face.
Once stepping into the realm of self-care and making these positive steps a habit, many
people find it easier to build up from there.
I always recommend elevating your routine with a monthly visit with a licensed skincare
professional. Who can not only provide knowledge, and recommend results driven home
care products, but the act of someone else cleansing and treating your skin is an
absolutely magical experience!
Caring for your skin is one of multiple ways to kickstart a regular practice of self-care.
No matter what you choose to be that first stepping stone down your new self-loving
path, remember to always feed your entire being with good things! Good care, good
words, good food, good people, and good energy.