Whaaaaat????
Let’s take that in. We don’t need a routine in order to feel good. The truth is the more we force ourselves to keep up with some 10-step care routine, the less likely we are to do it at all.
A good habit is an easy habit
I am not saying it’s not a good idea to get into the habit of doing something helpful, even healthy, but it should not be stressful. If starting to to fill the bath, covering it with candles, and invest in expensive bath bombs once a week, becomes loathsome, cut back. Okay, I laughed at that one, too. How about if the four step skin care routine is too much everyday? Or if making the homemade vegan protein smoothie every morning? Or the 3x a week yoga class All of these are great for you, but not if they are stressing you out. Maybe lessen how often including, I guess, slipping into the water, until it goes back to making you feel good.
Someone may be REALLY missing her bathtub now that she lives in a home without one so take the above reflection with a grain of epsom salt.
No Pressure, PLEASE!
Self care is as much emotional as it is physical.
With chronic illness, sometimes taking a shower is a big ask. I could beat myself up over that, or I can grab a can of dry shampoo. That’s what I talk about with “the pebble” and I sincerely believe a little step in the direction does make a difference.
When we’re feeling pressure, internally rather than externally, we’re going to succumb to it far more often. But that’s not REAL self care! By forcing ourselves to do something we don’t really want to do, we’re doing more harm than good.
You Can’t Screw it Up
It’s true.
Basically, if you are trying to take care of yourself, every little bit helps. And let’s be honest, here, it’s not brain surgery. I mean, it’s nice finding out your skin type, but even washing your face and having a few glasses of water a day is going to be good for you, no matter what.
