It’s #WellnessWednesday! Today I'd like to talk about Self Care. 

 

You may not know this about me, but I'm a big fan of hot yoga, and I've noticed it's a lot more than just a workout. It's a space for meditation, a focus on breathing, and a community gathering. Recently, I had a chat with a friend who's also a regular in these classes. She confessed she doesn't like going to the classes, but they serve as her self-care routine after long hours at the hospital.

 

Later in the day, I was discussing a budget with someone, since I like leaving a separate line item for self care I suggested she do the same. She proceeded to ask me, "What about video games? Can they be considered self-care?". Well, this all got me thinking about the difference between self-care and distraction.

 

In today's world, self-care has become a buzzword. But remember, self-care doesn't always mean splurging on bath bombs or spending a weekend at a luxury hotel. True self-care often doesn't feel great in the moment, but it's these small, sometimes uncomfortable steps that lead to long-term benefits. It includes being honest about your finances and investments, and being open to confronting the uncomfortable truths.

 

So what's the difference?

 

Distraction is an activity that diverts your attention from your present situation, often when it's less than pleasant. Distraction can seem like self-care because it gives you a temporary break from your problems. But remember, distraction doesn't solve the root cause of your stress or improve your well-being in the long run.

 

Self-care, on the other hand, is any action you take to nurture your well-being. Self-care can help you manage stress by addressing your needs, values, and goals. It also has the potential to enhance your overall well-being in the long term by boosting your physical, mental, emotional, financial and spiritual health.

 

How can you tell the difference?

 

One way to distinguish between distraction and self-care is to ask yourself these questions:

 

How do I feel before, during, and after the activity?

Does the activity align with my values and goals?

Does the activity help me grow and improve as a person?

Does the activity have any negative consequences or trade-offs?

If you feel worse, the activity goes against your values and goals, stagnates your personal growth, or results in negative consequences or trade-offs, then you're probably distracting yourself. If you feel better, the activity aligns with your values and goals, helps you grow and improve, or results in positive outcomes or benefits, then you're likely practicing self-care.

 

Here are a few examples of distraction and self-care that you might find relatable:

 

Distraction: Binge-watching TV shows to avoid responsibilities.

Self-Care: Taking a mindful walk in nature to clear your mind and recharge.

 

Distraction: Endlessly scrolling through social media to escape boredom.

Self-Care: Engaging in a creative hobby that brings you joy and fulfillment.

 

Distraction: Indulging in unhealthy comfort foods to numb emotions.

Self-Care: Preparing a nourishing meal that fuels your body and nourishes your soul.

 

And let's not forget, that having that annual review with your financial advisor about your portfolio or financial plan can also be an act of self-care. As long as you're honest with yourself and open to understanding where you stand financially and where you'd like to go.

 

Remember that true self-care is an act of self-love that acknowledges all aspects of who we are.