If you are like me, there are times in our lives where we suddenly hit a wall and realize we haven’t taken care of ourselves in a while. Maybe we just need a short nap or maybe we need to schedule that regular doctor visit. Either way, the result of neglecting our needs can pack a punch.
Self-care is tricky. As women we tend to put the needs of others before our own. Why is that? We can’t lead or help anyone with anything if we’re down for the count. On the other side of the fence, we want to avoid the trap of excessive self-focus. (Insert image of celebrity temper tantrums. Eeek!) Thankfully there is a middle ground and the Lord is pretty clear with His opinion.
Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit,
who is in you, whom you have received from God?
You are not your own; you were bought at a price.
Therefore honor God with your bodies.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Although this verse is talking about sexual purity, we honor God with our bodies in so many ways. So let’s zero in on some practical things we can do:
~Eat well. Making healthy food choices is important but so is remembering to eat. As Administrative Assistants, we are scheduling gurus. If you need to dedicate a time slot on your calendar, do it! Take time to step away and you’ll find that your mind is as refreshed as your body.
~Get enough sleep. This can take a bit of scheduling to develop the habit but it will pay off! Make a list of self-care things you need to do before your head hits the pillow (brush your teeth, wash your face, etc) and then set an alarm so you have time to get them done. It may sound simplistic but giving yourself time will help your body be more relaxed and ready for sleep.
~Get your body moving, moving! OK, I’m preaching to the choir here. I received a Fitbit last year and it has been the best awareness device I’ve ever used. While there are days that I’m running so much that I honk at my own taillights, there are more days when I’m glued to my office chair. Having an alert to remind me to take a walk has been great!
~See your doctor on a regular basis. Even healthy women need medical insight. Physicals, dental cleanings, mammograms, blood work – they all help you know that your “fearfully and wonderfully made” creation is working well! Has it been a while? Pick up the phone and make an appointment for yourself.
~Laugh with a friend! Recent studies have shown that laughter strengthens immune systems, boosts mood, minimizes the damaging effects of stress, relaxes the body, releases endorphins, protects the heart, and burns calories. I just gave you 7 reasons to meet a friend for coffee. You’re welcome!
~Do something that makes you smile. Get a manicure, sing a song, sit in the sun, get a haircut, dig in the garden, hug a friend, kiss some chubby baby cheeks, try a new lipstick. Doing something nice for yourself is a great investment!
When we pause to remember how much God has sacrificed for us – that we are bought at a price – we remember that self-care is actually a holy response of gratitude to our Father. It is our loving response to His tender whisper that…
You are adored.
You Are Adored 