Choosing Me: The Commitment to Self-Care

I’ve been in a bit of a dilemma over the last couple of weeks, trying to figure out what my next blog post should be about. The funny thing is, for once, it’s not because life feels overwhelmingly chaotic—though the world certainly hasn’t gotten any less crazy. It’s because, despite everything going on around me, I actually feel…good.

That realization brought me to this topic: self-care. You see, I’m in a place now where I’ve been actively practicing self-care, and it’s made all the difference. The world is still heavy with its challenges, but I don’t feel as weighed down by it anymore. It’s not that my problems have disappeared; it’s that I’ve learned to carry them differently. I’ve learned to prioritize myself in ways that allow me to show up better in all areas of my life.

The reason I couldn’t figure out what to write next wasn’t because I didn’t have anything to say, but because I’m finally experiencing the benefits of the self-care I’ve been working so hard to practice. So, instead of waiting for the next crisis or challenge to write about, I want to share what’s helping me feel this sense of balance and well-being, even when the world around me is far from perfect.

We often think of self-care as a facial, a trip to get a massage, or something we do when we have extra time or when things aren’t too busy. But I’ve learned that self-care is so much more. It’s about caring for yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s crucial, especially when life is at its most challenging. If we don’t take care of ourselves, we risk burnout, increased anxiety, and even deeper emotional struggles. Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

I’ve found that acknowledging my body’s response, whether it’s tension, fatigue, or restlessness, helps me recognize when I’m carrying too much stress. By tuning into these signals, I can take proactive steps to care for myself before the mental strain becomes overwhelming. Simple actions like square breathing, stretching, or even just taking a moment to rest can significantly shift my mental state, helping me regain clarity and calm. Coping becomes more manageable when I listen to my body and respond with kindness. This mindful approach allows me to stay grounded and move into what I need to do next to maintain my overall well-being.

I first learned about square breathing in therapy, and it’s been a game-changer for managing my anxiety. It’s simple but effective: breathe in for four counts, hold for four, breathe out for four, and hold again for four. This rhythmic breathing helps me regain control when I feel like my thoughts are spiraling. It’s a technique that anyone can do, anywhere, anytime.

One of the hardest but most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of setting boundaries. Sometimes this means turning down events I’m invited to or not answering a phone call or text message right away—or ever, in some cases. Whether it’s saying no to an extra project at work or carving out time just for myself, boundaries protect my mental health. It’s okay to put yourself first sometimes—to say, “I need this space to breathe, to rest, to heal.” I’ve learned to do this and allow others to judge it in whatever ways make them feel better.

It’s easy to forget that our physical health is closely tied to our mental well-being. I’ve been trying to prioritize eating more nourishing foods, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. It’s amazing how much better I feel when I’m taking care of my body—my mind follows suit.

Life can be hectic, but I’ve found that taking mindful breaks throughout the day makes a huge difference. Sometimes it’s as simple as stepping outside for a few minutes of fresh air or sitting quietly with my thoughts. These small pauses help me reset and approach the rest of my day with a clearer mind.

There’s a certain release that comes from allowing yourself to cry. I used to hold back my tears, thinking I needed to stay strong, but I’ve learned that crying is a powerful form of self-care. It’s okay to let the tears flow—to release the emotions that have been building up inside. It’s a way of honoring what you’re feeling and making space for healing. Crying allows me to release whatever is trying to hold on to me so that I can move forward with whatever action needs to take place next.

For me, faith is the cornerstone of self-care. When the world feels too heavy, I turn to prayer, scripture, and worship. Proverbs 3:24-26 has been a source of comfort: “When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.” These words remind me that I’m not carrying this burden alone—God is with me, and His grace is sufficient.

It’s easy to isolate yourself when things get tough, but I’ve learned that reaching out for support is one of the best forms of self-care. Whether it’s talking to a friend, leaning on family, or seeking help from my therapist, sharing the load can make it feel a little lighter. My tribe has been there for me in ways I never expected or thought I deserved, reminding me that I don’t have to go through this alone.

One of the hardest parts of self-care is being kind to yourself. I’ve had to learn to give myself grace—to understand that I’m doing the best I can with what I have. There will be days when I fall short, but that’s okay. There is a reason working out isn’t included in this blog, but I’m getting back to it! Self-care also means forgiving yourself and moving forward with compassion and understanding.

Self-care isn’t something you do just when life feels heavy; it’s a lifestyle. It’s about making choices every day that prioritize your well-being, physically, mentally, and spiritually. Life will always have its challenges, but when we take care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to face them with strength and resilience. You deserve to care for yourself, even when—especially when—the world feels heavy.