Creating a Self-Care Practice That Nourishes You
You may have heard of the phrase “Self-Care Sunday,” a popular reminder to dedicate time each week to caring for your mind and body. While setting aside Sundays for self-care has gained attention, I believe meaningful self-care can begin any day of the week. Whether you choose Sunday, Wednesday, Friday, or every day, your commitment to showing up for yourself truly matters.
Self-care is more than a trend. When approached with intention and compassion, it becomes a powerful practice that can enhance mental and emotional health, support physical well-being, nurture relationships, and create a more profound sense of purpose. Below are three foundational steps I invite you to consider when developing or strengthening your self-care routine:
1. Reflect on Your Goals and Values
In narrative therapy, I encourage clients to explore the stories they live by: the values, beliefs, and dreams that shape their lives. Begin by asking yourself: What do I want more of in my life right now? Instead of trying to improve everything at once, choose one area that feels most important or most neglected. Whether you want to cultivate calm, feel more energized, reconnect with creativity, or set healthy boundaries, naming your intention is a decisive first step. From there, identify the practices that support that intention and consider who or what can serve as a resource or ally in that process.
2. Make Space for What Matters
In Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based approaches, consistency and structure help shift patterns. Just as you allocate time for work, school, or family responsibilities, your well-being also deserves protected time. Block off a dedicated window in your schedule, whether it is an hour, an afternoon, or a full day, and treat it with the same level of respect you would offer any vital commitment. Follow through, even when motivation feels low, and observe how small, repeated efforts begin to shape new habits and internal narratives.
3. Include Therapy in Your Self-Care Toolkit
Self-care is often framed as a solo activity, but I believe it is just as much about connection as it is about solitude. One of the most affirming ways to care for your mental and emotional health is through therapy. Speaking with a trained professional allows you to examine the stories that have shaped you, challenge the unhelpful ones, and write new ones aligned with your strengths and values.
If you are ready to make therapy a part of your self-care journey, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we can co-create a space that honors your goals and supports your growth with empathy, evidence-based tools, and meaningful conversation. Contact me today to schedule an initial consultation. Your story matters, and so does your care.
