Defining Self-Care

The month of Valentine’s has arrived! Of course, soon after Christmas, the popular Cupids and red hearts were up to remind us to be in good cheer and spend some money on goodies for our loved ones.

Let’s have a little different perspective this time. I would like to remind you to take care of yourself first. Taking care of yourself fuels the good you can do in the world. True self-care is more than a collection of sayings, self-indulgence or surface-level practices. It’s taking stock of your humanness and building yourself up.

Each one of us has dignity as God’s Children. From the womb to death, each one is worth love and care. We were created to love and be loved. By taking care of yourself, you recognize the precious gift you were given to live a meaningful life. Too many, especially some care givers, give so much of themselves in being thoughtful, hard-working, persistent care deliverers, and in-addition active family members. All that caring takes a toll and we can easily see some get to a fatigue that diminishes health.

To those individuals, I say take time out for yourself. The old saying, if you don’t take care of yourself first, you are not going to be much help to others. It’s enlightening to consider self-care as an important sustainable habit that replenishes the body, mind and spirit.

Perhaps in this month, you can rework some habits that bring consideration to yourself. Is there a danger of too much pampering of oneself? For most of us, I don’t think so. The more we receive, the more we give away. May this Valentine’s Day find you replenished and able to love without limit and joyful to know that you are loved.

– Vito Genna, Executive Director

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