𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐨𝐤𝐚𝐲

Self-care is often misunderstood & can be confused with activities that are not actually beneficial for one's overall well-being

Sometimes it can feel like an additional source of stress rather than a means of reducing it

People feel overwhelmed by the many different self-care practices that are recommended

However, the pressure to engage in these practices can sometimes create additional stress & anxiety, especially if the person feels that they are not doing enough or not doing it "correctly"

Below are few examples of what self-care is not:

#1 Self-care is not always comfortable or easy

It may require making difficult choices, allowing uncomfortable emotions, or surrendering your inner resistances as a part of expansion

#2 Self-care is not a guarantee of perfect health or happiness

It does not mean that one will never experience physical or mental health challenges or difficult emotions.

It is a way to promote overall well-being & build resilience to better cope with challenges when they arise

#3 Self-care is not a way to avoid facing problems or challenges

While it can help individuals manage stress & build resilience, it is not a way to avoid or ignore underlying issues that need to be addressed

#4 Self-care is not a one-time event of sabbatical, vacation or taking a break

It is an ongoing process of prioritizing one's physical, emotional & mental well-being.

It is definitely not a quick fix for stress or burnout

#5 Self-care is not a rigid set of rules or practices.

What works for one person may not work for another, they can vary depending on individual needs and preferences.

It is important to experiment with different practices & find what works best for oneself

#6 Self-care is not a replacement for taking responsibility for one's actions or behaviors.

While it can be a way to manage stress and cope with difficult emotions, it is important to also take responsibility for one's actions and behaviors that may be contributing to stress or causing harm to oneself or others.

#7 Self-care is not a way to escape from reality.

While self-care practices can be a way to relax and recharge, it is important to also engage with the world and confront the challenges that we face as individuals and as a society

#8 Self-care is not just about pampering oneself.

While indulging in a relaxing activity or treating oneself to something special can be part of self-care, it is not the only aspect of it.

It also includes engaging in setting boundaries & seeking support when needed

Self-care is not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Different people have different needs and preferences when it comes to self-care practices.

What works for one may not work for another.

It is important to explore different practices and find what works best for oneself

-Sunitha