Self-Centered versus Self-Care

​It can be difficult at times deciphering if we are being “self-centered” or if we are really practicing self-care. To be “self-centered” means you are ONLY thinking and doing for yourself at the disregard of others and how it may affect them. Self-care practices are where you put the care of your mind, body, and spirit in a place of importance while considering how it will also improve your ability to connect with others in a genuine manner. Overall, your quality of life improves.

If you find that you are already doing well with your self-care practices, then the next step is to ask yourself – “How can I set myself up for success in staying on this path?” Make it easy for you to follow the same steps each day so this self-care become part of your daily routine.
If you find that you are not already practicing self-care, it is time to discover what your “roadblocks” are and to break through them. We do this by attending to nourishing our mind, body, and spirit. We have a healthy mind when if looks and feels open, clear, flexible, rested and malleable. We get this through therapy, reading, engaging in meaningful and positive relationships, puzzles and games, positive affirmations, music, writing, breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, etc. .  When we practice mindfulness through these activities, or others of a similar nature, we are able to nourish a healthy mindset.

We nourish our body by attending to it in healthy ways such as consuming healthy foods and exercise, as well as developing and maintaining healthy sleep habits. This provides more energy flow, and our body is able to respond as is expected and it is supportive of itself as a system. We have a nourished and healthy spirit when we are open to it. Our nourished spirit will look like a reduction in tension, worry and stress. It will feel more at peace, and our thoughts slow down, as does our heartrate. Our nourished spirit looks open and accepting. We are nourishing our spirit at all times of day, anywhere, when we allow ourselves to be. It is up to each of us to set and reinforce boundaries to protect that. Quality of that time is more important than the quantity of time.
 
Here at The Center, we take this holistic approach to address the attainment and continuation of a healthy lifestyle. Please join us as we discuss your practice of self-care, and any additional challenges you find yourself facing these days.

Contributed By: Cynthia Palmer, LMFT

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