Self-Care: Not Self-ish

March is National Social Worker Month and an ideal time to connect with our inner social workers. (It's also a great time to give a social worker a hug, gift, or recognition for the stellar work they do to make our world a better place.)   

People in healthcare professions pour themselves out as they serve patients and family. No matter what our jobs, life has a way of asking us to show up  and bring it every day. One of our volunteers, Lee King, compiled a handout on the subject of self-care. It starts with the following quote:

Self-care is not selfish. You can't serve from an empty vessel. 

This month, we're focusing on some ways to care for ourselves. Some of us are already good at this. The rest of us will need some practice. Regardless, here's a good place to start:

Self-Care Tip #1: Acknowledge Yourself
Remember, it is not selfish to take care of yourself. Consider sitting on a plane before take-off. The flight attendant instructs anyone traveling with children to first put on his or her oxygen mask, and then the child's. We are better at caring for others when we are properly equipped.

You have wishes, dreams, hopes for each day. You also have needs and limits. Some people have been rolling on auto pilot for so long, they haven't listened to their inner social worker in years. In the spirit of the movie "Inside Out," wake up that inner social worker. While you're at it, give the dude (or lady) a name!

Take a pause, a few quiet minutes to be without thinking about anyone's expectations (including your own). Be aware of your breathing. Recognize how you're feeling in the moment. Think about what you may need: Is the way you're living honoring your physical, mental and emotional health?

Your thoughts and feelings are valid and worthy. So are you.

Note: Self-care isn't something you put on your to-do list. Nope, it starts right now.