(Re)Defining Self-Care in a World of Buzzwords

Why Self-Care is a Bullshit Term

Let's be real - self-care has become a buzzword, a trend, and often, an overused cliche. You can't scroll through social media, browse a lifestyle magazine, or have a casual conversation without encountering the term self-care. But beneath the glittering facade of scented candles, bubble baths, and social media hashtags, lies a deeper, more authentic conversation about what self-care truly means.

The Bullshit Side of Self-Care

Self-care has become synonymous with indulgence and luxurious escapades. It's about spa days, lavish vacations, and purchasing the latest self-help book. The reality, however, is far from these picture-perfect images. The modern perception of self-care has created unrealistic expectations and unnecessary pressure for individuals who are already juggling a myriad of responsibilities.

Especially for TheraMamas, this glossy portrayal of self-care often perpetuates guilt and inadequacy. Many feel that they're failing at self-care because they can't afford a weekend spa retreat or an hour-long meditation session. It's time to cut through the BS and redefine self-care in a meaningful way - preferably one that resonates with everyday life.

(Re)Defining Self-Care

True self-care isn't about breaking the bank or escaping your responsibilities. It's about nurturing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being in ways that are accessible and sustainable. Here's how we can redefine self-care:

1. Self-Care as a Daily Ritual:

Self-care isn't about extravagant acts; it's a daily practice that focuses on small, meaningful moments. It's the joy of sipping your morning coffee in peace, taking a short walk during lunch, or savoring a favorite meal.

2. Boundaries and Saying No:

Self-care is also about setting boundaries and saying no when needed. It's recognizing that you can't pour from an empty cup. Sometimes, self-care means putting yourself first and declining additional commitments.

3. Embracing Imperfection:

Perfection is not a requirement for self-care. It's about accepting your flaws, embracing vulnerability, and finding beauty in the messy, imperfect aspects of life.

4. Self-Compassion:

Self-care is rooted in self-compassion. It's about treating yourself with kindness, especially in moments of self-doubt, guilt or disappointment.

5. Realistic Self-Care Goals:

Instead of lofty goals, self-care is about setting realistic expectations and achievable self-care goals that align with your life. It's creating a self-care routine that's manageable and fulfilling.

6. Finding Joy in the Everyday:

Most importantly, self-care is about finding joy in the everyday. It's recognizing the little things that bring happiness and contentment, even in the midst of chaos.

Who Am I?

Hi! I’m MacKenzie, your Self-Care Mompanion. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of Follow Your Arrow Counseling, LLC. I’ve been in private practice since 2007 (part-time) and in 2017 I went full-time. Mostly because I became a Mom and I was tired of working the long hours I had been prior to this new phase of life. I work with Moms and Therapist Moms who are stressed out, overwhelmed and not taking care of themselves as well as they take care of everyone else. Being a Mom is hard. There are some days I really don’t like it, to be honest. There are days I don’t like being a Mom and having to deal with some of the parts of motherhood…like being blamed for everything, ignored and not being appreciated. Thank goodness there are other moments when my daughter tells me I’m her best friend that make up for all the crappy days.

Stick around and join me as we walk this road of motherhood together. It truly takes a village to raise our kids and maintain our sanity.

Reclaiming Self-Care

It's time to reclaim self-care from the clutches of commercialism and perfection. Let's strip away the BS and remember that self-care is a deeply personal, accessible, and essential practice. It's not about how it looks on Instagram, but how it feels in your heart and fits into your life.

So, the next time you hear the term "self-care," don't roll your eyes at the overuse of the word. Instead, (re)define it for yourself. Embrace the small, everyday rituals that nurture your well-being and remember that self-care isn't about perfection; it's about authenticity.