Why self-care is a necessity

It took me awhile to really understand the importance of self-care and why it is a necessity, not a luxury.

Like most people, I know life is super hectic and busy. Work is all consuming and you find yourself willing the Monday to Friday slog to move faster so you can get to your weekend. You find yourself literally living for the weekend. You have two precious days and you have to make them count right? So here goes the packed schedule of seeing friends, family, household jobs, brunching, lunching, dinner, drinks, Netflix and chill etc etc… the list is never ending. Before you know it you are back at the desk on Monday wondering why you feel so tired.

I found myself moving at a pace that the sign for burn-out was visible in the distance. I would find it hard to switch my brain off at night which would result in a half insomniac sleepy state and not the blissful slumber everyone chases. I was constantly thinking about what I needed to do, what I could do better and obsessing about stuff that would most likely never happen (hello worry warrior).

I wasn’t unhealthy but I knew I could be SO much healthier. I also started to become very aware of the importance of women’s health. At a stage of my life where fertility health is critical, I became conscious of how lifestyle factors can have a huge impact. Stress in particular can cause lots of negative effects such as throwing hormones out of sync and disrupting signals between the brain and the reproductive system.

So I decided to focus on self-care and wellness. Actually I decided it would become a habit to make me feel healthier, chilled and connected. It feeds your mind, body and soul. I imagine self-care like a preventative medicine which can happen anywhere or anytime. It is so easy to find excuses to avoid it but trust me self-care is a necessity for everyone and here’s why:

Prevent burnout

We’ve all been there – you push yourself to the point where your body and brain are pushed to the limit and you give up. Self-care helps you avoid getting to that point.

Helps you focus and refocus

Taking breaks from stressful or difficult tasks allows you to perform better when you return to them. This will also help you avoid procrastination, prevent anxiety and raising stress levels. 

Reduce stress levels

A small amount of stress can serve a purpose, but after a while, it negatively impacts your mind and body. Taking care of yourself means keeping your stress from taking over so you can function at full capacity.

  

The best tip I can give for self-care is to keep it simple. It doesn’t have to cost the earth or take over your time. Everyday rituals can become self-care moments. For me, a cup of tea, lighting a candle and reading a fashion magazine is pure bliss. If I am having a stressful day going for a walk outside can make all the difference. A yoga workout can make me feel like a new woman and as for my hot baths and face masks...ultimate chill vibes.

So what are you waiting for?! Go do you.