After my last post about self-care, I had quite a few people reach out and ask what I actually do when I need a minute... or a real break.
The truth is, I don't have one specific thing. My version of self-care changes depending on what my brain and body need that day.
Sometimes I read. If I'm feeling overwhelmed or just need to escape reality for a little while, I'll grab a book and disappear into someone else's story. It still makes me laugh when I think about it. Growing up, I hated reading. If you had told younger me that one day I would love reading and even become an author, I would have thought you were absolutely crazy.
Some days are different. You know those days when you don't feel angry, but you just need to let some energy out? The kind of day where going to one of those places that lets you smash plates sounds oddly satisfying? On those days, I usually grab one of our basher RC cars and head to a local park. I'll launch it off ramps, crash it into things, roll it over, and just drive it like I have absolutely no business driving it. Somehow, it works. It's hard to explain, but there's something therapeutic about it.
Other times, self-care is much quieter.
Sometimes it's hiding in my room with the lights off.
Sometimes it's standing in the shower a little longer than necessary just to breathe.
Sometimes it's an ice cream run with my husband.
Sometimes it's taking a drive with no destination in mind.
Sometimes it's baking something.
Sometimes it's creating art.
Sometimes it's designing a new project, writing, or working on an idea that has been living in my head.
And yes, occasionally it looks suspiciously like a shopping spree.
The biggest thing I've learned is that self-care doesn't have to look the same every time. I don't have a magic routine or a list of things I always do. I try to pay attention to what my mind and body are asking for in that moment and give myself permission to meet that need.
Some days I need quiet.
Some days I need movement.
Some days I need creativity.
Some days I need connection.
And some days I just need a break.
I think that's something we forget sometimes. Self-care isn't always bubble baths, candles, and face masks. Sometimes it's reading a chapter of a book. Sometimes it's driving an RC car way too fast through a park. Sometimes it's sitting in a dark room for ten minutes before rejoining the chaos.
Whatever it looks like for you, don't feel guilty for taking that time.
We can't pour from an empty cup, and taking care of ourselves isn't selfish—it's necessary.
