When you hear the word self-care, what comes to mind? A bubble bath? A night of binge-watching your favorite show? While those things can feel good at the moment, self-care is actually a lot deeper than that—and way more important. Let’s talk about self-care and what self-care is and isn’t. True self-care isn’t about escape—it’s about creating habits that help you function, feel good, and stay grounded through life’s ups and downs.
What Is Self-Care, Really?
Self-care means checking in with yourself and doing things that support your physical, emotional, mental, and even spiritual health. Morgan Turner, a licensed clinical social worker at UW Medicine, says self-care is “anything that helps promote your health.” That includes everything from getting enough sleep to setting boundaries or spending time in nature. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) also emphasizes that self-care isn’t a one-time thing—it’s a way of living. It includes the habits and choices you make every day that support your body and mind. Dr. Matt Glowiak from SNHU explains, “self-care is essential. It’s not a luxury—it’s a necessity” (SNHU).
Self-Care Isn’t Always Comfortable
Sometimes, self-care is saying no to things that don’t serve you, even if it’s uncomfortable. It might mean going to bed early instead of scrolling on your phone or having a challenging conversation with someone instead of bottling things up.
Turner from UW Medicine reminds us that it isn’t true self-care if something is draining your energy, causing guilt, or just helping you avoid problems. Authentic self-care should help you feel more capable, connected, and like yourself, not just numb the stress for a little while.
The Science Behind Self-Care
Self-care isn’t just a feel-good trend—it’s backed by research. A 2019 International Journal of Nursing Studies article explains that self-care involves awareness, self-control, and self-reliance. These traits help people manage health challenges (like chronic illnesses) and improve their overall quality of life (PMC Article).
Here’s what the research found:
- Self-care supports better physical and mental health
- It helps people manage symptoms and cope with stress
- It can reduce unnecessary trips to the doctor
- And it leads to better long-term outcomes, especially for those dealing with chronic conditions
This shows us that self-care isn’t just helpful for your mood—it is critical in overall health and prevention.
Why It Matters (Especially for Caregivers and Helpers)
If you’re someone who gives a lot, whether it’s to your family, community, or career, it’s easy to put your own needs last. But the truth is, when we don’t care for ourselves, it becomes harder to care for anything else.
You’ve probably heard the saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” And it’s true. Feeling burned out, depleted, or disconnected from ourselves impacts how we show up for others.
So, let me say this clearly: Self-care is not selfish. It’s how you keep your spark alive.
What Self-Care Looks Like
Self-care is different for everyone, but the key is doing what helps you feel healthy, whole, and more “you.” Here are a few simple ways to start:
Physical Self-Care:
- Take a walk or stretch regularly
- Drink water and eat foods that give you energy
- Get enough rest and sleep
Mental Self-Care:
- Take breaks from screens and social media
- Try journaling or reading
- Say no to tasks that stretch you too thin
Emotional Self-Care:
- Talk to someone you trust
- Practice gratitude
- Let yourself feel your feelings instead of pushing them away
✨ Spiritual Self-Care:
- Spend time in nature
- Meditate or pray
- Reflect on your purpose and values
Even small steps count. Just asking yourself, “What do I need right now?” is a form of self-care.
How to Know When You Need More Self-Care
Sometimes, your body and mind will give you clear signs that you need to slow down and care for yourself. Maybe you’re always tired, even after a full night’s sleep. Small things might feel overwhelming, and you could lose interest in activities you usually enjoy. You might feel disconnected from yourself or others, emotionally numb, or notice that you’re more irritable, anxious, or moody than usual.
These signals aren’t weaknesses—they’re messages. Your system is trying to tell you it needs a recharge.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to earn self-care. You don’t need to wait for a breakdown or a burnout to make yourself a priority. Self-care is not about being perfect or adding more to your to-do list. It’s about making the choice—over and over—to treat yourself with the same care you offer to others.
So the next time someone tells you to take care of yourself, I hope you do. Because you matter. And taking care of you is what helps everything else fall into place.
References:
- Turner, M. (2021). What Self-Care Really Means, UW Medicine Right as Rain.
- Glowiak, M. (2022). What Is Self-Care and Why Is It Important?, Southern New Hampshire University.
- Riegel, B., et al. (2019). Self-care research: Where are we now? Where are we going?, International Journal of Nursing Studies.
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