Starting a Conversation about Self-Care

My favorite plant in my apartment. I love the white-and-purple blossoms against the dark green foliage. It’s important to have things around you that bring you joy.

If self-care were a university course, it would have been the only one I would have flunked out of. It’s really too bad it wasn’t a university course–much better to start these habits as a younger person!

Maybe you’re like me: a self-motivated, overachiever who likes setting goals and plans and achieving them. Perhaps you’re more easy-going and relaxed, and more in touch with taking your time with things. Either way, I bet there are times when self-care becomes a challenge…or seems like a down-right paradox machine, rather than a truly attainable, every-day practice.

Over five years ago, I quit the path I was on toward ordained ministry (in the Anglican Church) to take a serious look at how I do (or do not) take care of myself. You know what? I’m still looking at it. It used to be it was something I needed a small telescope to glimpse from what seems like light years away. Now, I can glare self-care right in the eye…sometimes while sipping one-too-many lattes.

Yeah, I called you out, latte. Don’t gimme that look.

I decided to start this blogging adventure for two purposes. One to get my own thoughts articulated about how self-care and joy fit into a lifestyle of disciple and happiness, and the other to share my journey/be honest and accountable about the ups-and-downs of such a journey. Writing is a therapeutic art, among other kinds.

My goal is this: for next 30 days, I am going to share some small thoughts/bits of progress about relaxation, joy, and self-care through this blog. I’m curious about how you do it, too. After all, we all have to eat, drink, and be merry–how do you do it? What keeps you calm and enjoying life one day at a time?

Some of my not-so secret secrets involve prayer, meditation, and gratitude. I’ll talk about one of those things next time!

Until then…!

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