Self-Care
By Lesley Newberry of StandTAL

I realized that my approach to self-care needed a significant reset.

In today’s world, self-care is often depicted as luxurious bubble baths, expensive skincare routines, and mani pedi’s.
While these activities can be relaxing, they barely scratch the surface of what proper self-care entails.
I fell into the trap of believing that these superficial actions were enough to nourish my mind, body, and soul.

Real self-care isn’t about quick fixes or momentary pleasures. It’s about making intentional choices that support our well-being in the long run. Here are the steps I took to redefine my self-care routine:

Listening to My Body and Mind:

Listening to My Body and Mind: I began paying closer attention to what my body and mind told me. I noticed patterns in my energy levels, stress triggers, and emotional highs and lows. This awareness helped me understand what I needed to feel balanced and healthy.

Prioritizing Rest and Sleep:

I underestimated the power of good sleep. I started to prioritize getting enough rest and establishing a consistent sleep schedule. This change alone made a significant difference in my overall well-being.

Nourishing My Body with Healthy Foods, I focused on eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Nutrition is a vital part of my daily life. Eating well gave me more energy and made me feel physically and mentally better.

Setting Boundaries:

Learning to say no and setting boundaries was crucial. I realized that I often took on too much, which led to burnout. Setting limits allowed me to conserve energy and focus on what mattered.

Engaging in Activities I Love:

I made time for hobbies and Exercise that genuinely brought me joy. Whether it was reading, bowling, or painting, doing things I loved helped me recharge and feel more fulfilled.

Seeking Support:

I recognized the importance of seeking Support from friends, family, or a therapist. Talking about my feelings and experiences helped me gain perspective and feel encouraged.

As I embraced these changes, I began to notice a profound shift. I felt more energized, balanced, and content. The superficial self-care routines that once seemed essential faded into the background as I embraced practices that nourished me

My journey to understanding authentic self-care was a transformative experience. It taught me that self-care isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach and goes beyond pampering oneself.

It’s about making thoughtful choices that enhance our well-being and allow us to thrive. By redefining self-care, I found a more profound sense of fulfillment and learned to care for myself in ways that truly matter.

This discovery of The Impact of Genuine Self-Care prompted me to add this as a part of our Balance to Bloom Retreat 2025 to share with others.

-STANDTAL🩵🦋