In the pursuit of personal growth and spiritual evolution, we often overlook the fundamental principle of self-care. It’s essential to remember that nurturing ourselves holistically - body, mind, and spirit - is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Here are various dimensions of self-care that are frequently neglected:
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Physical Self-Care: Our physical body is the vessel through which we experience life and its transformations. Honouring it with proper nutrition, adequate rest, and regular exercise is crucial. Examples include:
- Prioritising sleep to restore energy and balance.
- Eating nutritious foods that nourish the body and soul.
- Engaging in physical activities that you enjoy, like yoga, walking, or dancing, to maintain health and vitality.
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Emotional Self-Care: Emotional wellbeing is as vital as physical health. Recognising and honouring your feelings, seeking emotional support, and practising self-compassion are key aspects. Examples include:
- Journaling to process emotions.
- Seeking therapy or counselling when needed.
- Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as reading a book, watching a favourite film, or spending time with loved ones.
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Mental Self-Care: The mind, with its thoughts and beliefs, plays a significant role in our overall wellbeing. Cultivating a positive mindset and engaging in activities that stimulate and relax the mind are important. Examples include:
- Practising meditation or mindfulness to calm the mind.
- Engaging in hobbies or learning new skills to keep the mind active and engaged.
- Setting aside time for self-reflection and personal growth.
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Spiritual Self-Care: Spirituality, irrespective of religious beliefs, involves connecting with your inner self and the universe. It’s about finding meaning and purpose in life. Examples include:
- Spending time in nature to feel connected to the earth and the universe.
- Practising gratitude, which can shift perspective and bring a sense of peace.
- Engaging in spiritual or religious practices that resonate with you, such as prayer, meditation, or attending a service.
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Social Self-Care: Humans are social beings, and nurturing relationships is a part of holistic self-care. Building and maintaining healthy relationships are key. Examples include:
- Prioritising quality time with friends and family.
- Joining groups or communities that share similar interests or values.
- Learning to set healthy boundaries in relationships.
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Self-Care through Creativity: Creative expression is a powerful tool for self-care, providing an outlet for emotions and thoughts. Examples include:
- Engaging in creative activities like painting, writing, or crafting.
- Exploring music, either by listening or playing an instrument.
- Experimenting with cooking or gardening.
In conclusion, holistic and spiritual self-care is about balancing and nurturing all aspects of our being. It’s recognising that each part of us - physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and social - needs attention and care. By incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can better handle the challenges of personal and spiritual growth, ensuring that we don’t just chase goals but live a fulfilled and balanced life.
I neglected this over the past years, and I had exhausted myself by pushing my limits. By the end of last year, I realised that I needed to slow down. Even when life events push me hard, my life is a constant rollercoaster, but sometimes I just need to use a hand break. So I would like to emphasis the importance of self-care. The world will not stop if you will stop for a moment and just look after your needs.
I had a small dramatic moment of self-pity, recently. I helped a lot of my family members and friends in the past years, to reach the point when I had cried alone, felt tired and just wished that someone would do the same for me.
I’ve decided to put my needs first for a while. I don’t need anyone to do same things for me, but I need myself to take care of myself. I am important, too.
I am sure many of you here are devoted to improving life for your dear ones, feeling the pressure of being the role model, maybe a leader in your family. From the bottom of my heart, I ask you to don’t forget about yourself 
