Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish: Reclaiming Time for Yourself
Let’s be honest — “self-care” used to sound like one of those things only people with a lot of free time and a fancy dressing gown did. Meanwhile, most of us are juggling work, family, laundry mountains, and trying to remember what we went into the kitchen for.
But here’s the truth: self-care isn’t about spa days (unless that’s your thing). It’s about restoring yourself before you fall apart. And no — it’s not selfish. It’s necessary maintenance for your body, mind, and soul.
What Self-Care Really Looks Like
Self-care doesn’t have to be some perfectly curated routine with candles and Enya playing in the background. It can be:
- Drinking your tea while it’s still hot (gasp!)
- Saying no without giving a 3-paragraph explanation
- Letting yourself just be instead of constantly doing
- Setting boundaries that protect your energy
- Sitting in your garden with a notebook and doing absolutely nothing productive
The Mind Shift That Changes Everything
The biggest shift? Realising you don’t have to earn rest. You don’t have to be completely burnt out to deserve a break. You are allowed to take time for yourself simply because you’re a human being — not a robot with an infinite battery life.
When we show ourselves even a little kindness, we have more to give to others too — and we’re far less likely to burst into tears in the snack aisle of Tesco.
How I Built Self-Care into My Day
As someone managing M.E. and IBS, I’ve had to be intentional about energy. My self-care includes:
- A slow start to the day
- A cup of something warm in the garden
- Creating — even if it’s just doodling in my journal
- Saying “not today” to things that drain me
It’s not fancy. It’s not Instagram-worthy. But it works — because it’s mine.
Ready to Make Self-Care a Habit?
If you’re ready to make self-care part of your daily rhythm, my Mindfulness Workbook & Journal is a gentle guide to help you pause, reflect, and recharge. It’s 51 pages of calm, clarity, and practical prompts — perfect for any mum who’s ready to reclaim her time and energy.