In today's fast-paced world, many of us face multiple stressors which can over time, lead to burnout or health challenges. At first our body may send gentle signs for us to pay attention, but if we ignore these we can end up with more serious health challenges. Taking care of ourselves is more important than ever and prioritising our wellbeing is essential for our body, mind, and spirit.
In Australia, 61% of workers have experienced burnout, compared to the global average of 48%. Parental burnout is also on the rise, with many parents feeling emotionally exhausted and disconnected from their children.
“Wellness is not just the absence of illness; it’s about being healthy physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.” – Ariana Huffington
Wellness requires conscious effort and self-awareness. Self-care involves treating yourself with kindness and self-compassion, nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. It can include activities like hobbies, exercise, practicing self-compassion, or setting boundaries. Prioritising self-care helps build empathy, resilience, and a sense of balance and fulfillment.
Reframing Self-Care
As busy parents, professionals, students, or caregivers, we often put our needs last but it's not selfish to take care of ourselves; it’s necessary. The costs can be too high if we don't attend to our needs, and it enables us to support ourselves and others more effectively.
Self-compassion is an important ingredient in self-care. It involves acknowledging your situation and responding with kindness. It may include three key components:
Mindfulness: Stay present with your difficult feelings without identifying with them or becoming overly absorbed in them. Name and label them and make space for them.
Self-kindness: Instead of criticising yourself for mistakes or challenges or for how you feel, offer yourself kindness and understanding.
Common humanity: Remember, everyone goes through tough times and struggles. We all experience pain and suffering, disappointment, loss and repeatedly. Just remember, you are not alone in your challenges. Remembering this can help us feel more connected and less isolated.
Embracing self-care and self-compassion allows us to lead healthier, more balanced lives, ultimately benefiting ourselves and those around us.
If you or someone you know is going through a stressful time, or experiencing burnout or needs a reminder to take care of themselves, have a look at the new thoughtful Care Gift Packs below that have recently been developed to help you support yourself of those you care about during difficult times.
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