Taking Care of Yourself Matters

I want to invite you to pause for a moment and check in with your body and mind. As a new week begins, it’s easy to get carried away by our to-do list, responsibilities and the constant demands of daily life. We often move so quickly that we forget to slow down and listen to what we truly need.

Self-care is the foundation of physical, emotional and mental well-being. It fuels our energy, helps manage stress and improves our ability to cope with daily challenges. When we take the time to care for ourselves, it enhances our resilience and improves our capacity to manage stressors with a more balanced emotional regulation. This, in turn, allows us to show up more fully for others; whether this is in your interpersonal relationships, work or communities. 

This is your gentle reminder that self-care is not a luxury; it’s essential. Self-care doesn’t have to require a lot of time to make a difference. Even small, quick and intentional acts of care can shift your energy and mindset in powerful ways. It’s the intention around making yourself your priority for the time you are dedicating for self- care.

Here’s some ways you can refill your cup this week:

Check in with yourself: Ask yourself: How am I feeling right now? Notice if you are holding judgement towards yourself and if you can create a moment for giving yourself some grace.

Unplug: Set aside some time this week to disconnect from your devices. Read, rest, take a walk or enjoy uninterrupted time with yourself, a loved one or your pets.

Practice self- compassion: Notice your internal dialogue. If you notice harsh or critical thoughts, pause and respond with compassion. Speak to yourself the way you’d speak to someone you care about.

Make space for intentional movement: a slow walk, a short stretch or dancing around your space.

Create boundaries that feel good to you: Saying “no” isn’t selfish. This can help preserve your mental, emotional and physical resources.

Build a daily joy practice: Set aside a small, intentional moment each day to engage in something that brings you joy; whether it’s a favorite cup of tea, listening to a song you like, lighting a candle or going outside for 5 minutes.

Practice positive affirmations: think of an uplifting statement you can repeat to yourself to challenge negative thoughts.

What is one self- care you want to engage in this week?

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Joelle Anter Dardik, LICSW values collaboration in therapy and strives to create a safe and non-judgmental space to support personal growth. She uses a person-centered, strengths-based approach to individualize therapy to the needs of the client.

Joelle has completed advanced training in trauma-informed treatment, working with victims of commercial sexual exploitation, and in perinatal mental health. She is also experienced and interested in working with neurodiverse clients.

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