Self care has gained popularity in the last few years but because of this self care has also gained many reputations many of which being myths. Everyone's experience with self care is different and I recommend experimenting to find practices that work for you. If you are starting your journey to taking care of yourself or a seasoned professional these myths may have worked their way into your view of self care and I recommend assessing your views on this necessary practice.
Selfish
The biggest misconception that stops people from practicing self care is the idea that it is selfish, yet this is far from the truth. In a world that places our value in what we produce and what we do it's difficult to take time to yourself in an unproductive way (or so people think) without feeling guilty for "wasting time". The truth is, however, that productivity increases after a break. Self care is productive and essential.
Expensive
Corporations and our consumerist world has taken over the idea of self care and branded it with a luxury tax. There is no price tag on relaxation, and self care can be had in a variety of ways. One of the most popular activities is nature walks. This is completely free and can be adapted to many different lifestyles. The idea behind self care is to take time to prioritize yourself mentally and physically.
Luxury
Although this point ties into the idea of self care being expensive, self care is not a luxury. Self care should be made a priority in your life not only in your budget but most importantly with your time. Self care can also be adapted to any lifestyle although an effort should be made to prioritize yourself during your set aside time. For some self care may look like a luxurious bath while others it may be buying a frozen lasagna so you don't have to cook that day.
Feminine
Self care is important to everyone although companies have been targeting women with ads for years longer than men. Self care doesn't have to be getting your nails done or getting a facial, it can be going for a hike or playing games with your friends. Whatever is energizing and helps you feel more human, that's all self care needs to be.
Aesthetic
Self care as companies has targeted women have also made it look like a beautiful event. Yet for most people this is far from reality. Although I love pretty things, my self care often is not the most picturesque. I usually journal for my self care as you can probably tell if you have been reading my blog for a while as I post about it a lot, yet other than a pretty journal I most likely got on sale the activity is nothing pretty. My handwriting is horrendous and this activity is often accompanied by week old pj's. The idea of self care is to let go of all stressors and that often includes the pressure to be "presentable" or put together in any way.
Introverted
Even though I tend to talk about more introverted self care activities as I am an introvert, this is not a closed practice. For many social people self care may look like going out for coffee with friends or getting together with loved ones. If something makes you happy in a healthy way it's likely a great self care activity for you. Even introverts may need a social self care day every once in a while.
Abandon all expectations
When it comes to self care it's a completely personal experience. The goal will likely be equally customized to you and what you're needing at the moment. As long as you are enjoying yourself in a healthy (and legal) way there should be no judgment about your experience. I've always disliked the idea of a 'guilty pleasure'. If you want to watch a cheesy romance movie that others may consider cringe, do it. If you enjoy reading sci-fi others may call nerdy do it. Your hobbies and interests have nothing to do with them, and if they make fun of you it may be self care to limit your interactions with them. Make yourself a priority and take care of you.
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