This is a continuation of a series on self care and wellness by Janice Falls, a counsellor living and working in Old Ottawa South.
ou have to make taking care of yourself a priority; no one else is going to do it for you. Yet the myth of indulgent selfishness continues to prevent many of us from safeguarding what should be a basic necessity. The real indulgence comes in not practising self care, in allowing ourselves to become depleted, even to the point of breakdown or burnout.
There is a simple analogy from the airline industry which I often draw on. Should the need for oxygen masks arise, whose needs do you take care of first, yours or others'? It is only by securing your own supply of oxygen first that you are then in a position to be truly helpful to others.
The same applies to self care - taking care of your own physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual health enables you to give from a state of wholeness rather than from one of deficiency.
So what does it mean, practically speaking, to place yourself first? It begins with taking time to listen to what your own needs might be. What are your body, mind and heart telling you? It means taking time for reflection in a consistent and conscious manner through such means as journal writing, meditation, yoga, prayer or just sitting quietly with awareness. These practices require little more than our focussed attention but how challenging that can be!
Meeting others' needs at your own expense can become a way of life, so consider your priorities. What are you doing to take care of yourself so that your contribution does not leave you gasping for breath? This is a challenge that all of us face daily. Fortunately, it is within our personal power to meet this challenge and raise self care to a fine art.
Janice Falls is a counsellor for personal and spiritual growth, helping people learn the fine art of self care. For further information call 730-0373.