Self-Care is Not Selfish, Sis!

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11:28-29‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.” Ephesians‬ ‭5:29‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Self-care is a necessity no matter where you are in life. No matter if you're going through the good & the bad, highs & lows, or ups & downs. It is also a way to make sure YOU are taking care of YOU. You can't be there for others if you not there for yourself. And if you are trying to do that, stop pouring from an empty cup.

As women, we tend to carry the burdens of everyone else. Some of us may be mothers or business owners. In the same way, both roles take so much out of us. It is okay to take time for yourself. It is okay to be with just yourself and God. It is not selfish to say no to an event so you can put time aside to find rest for your soul.

A self-care box would be a great way to have all your stuff together whenever you wanna wind down! You can create one by yourself or during a ladies night with ya girls!

All you need: a box, bin, tote, whatever you choose and your self-care go-tos!

Here’s some things you can put in your personal self-care box for each aspect of your life:

Spiritual

• Bible: I definitely recommend getting a Bible that has a place to take notes or finding a study Bible because they are full of SO much information.

• Prayer Journal: Having a place that you can write down your prayers is so convenient. It fills me up when I reflect on past prayers and see how God came through!

• Devotional Book: The Bible app or Amazon are great places to look!

Emotional:

• Journal: You can free-write, look up journal prompts, or write down how you are feeling so you can track your emotional status

• Tissues

Physical:

• Your fav face mask and other skincare products

• Tea packets

• Bath bombs

• Stress balls

• Yoga Mat

• Nail Polish

• Candles

• Exercise equipment (waist trainers, weights, resistance bands)

Mental:

• Some of your fav books: I LOVE reading so if you ever need any book recommendations, talk to me!

• Art supplies: It's nothing like painting outside at a park with some music going!

• Headphones

“For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭6:20‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

It wouldn't be right if I didn't give some ideas for activities you can do with things in your box or without any materials at all:

Spiritual:

• Read a bible devotional: The Bible app has GREAT devotionals over many topics

• Have some quiet time with God

• Fellowship: Have worship nights with friends, do a group bible study, or a prayer call. If y'all need someone to do this with, I'm down!

• Watch a sermon: With church being online, there are many sermons on YouTube. You can also listen to them on the Podcast app

• Write in your prayer journal

• Worship: I love a good worship playlist so if you have one, drop the link in the comments!

Emotional:

• Talk to a counselor: There's nothing wrong with counseling. If someone makes you feel that way, remember it's your journey, not theirs. Do what you gotta do for you, boo!

• Choose peace over conflict: Peace is too important

• Find humor

• Repeat Affirmations: “I am loved by the Most High.” “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” “I choose joy today.”

• Express gratitude: Waking up and giving thanks for at least 5 things everyday will make a difference! ✨

• Be aware of your feelings, thoughts, actions, & words

Physical:

• Exercise: This can be enjoyable and maybe more easy when you have an accountability partner. My friend Brittany invited me to 30 for 30 challenge (a mile a day for 30 days) using the Nike Run Club app & it's so fun! Shoutout my good sis! ❤️ While we're on the topic, follow her organization on Instagram @ BeautifulSoulInc!

• Yoga: Stretch to relieve some tension that may not only be caused by physical circumstances, but mental or emotional

• Take a bubble bath: A bubble bath with some Epsom salt and a good book will do the trick

• Eat fruits & veggies

• Get some good sleep

• Spend time outside

• Get pampered: Get a massage, get your hair, nails, lashes done, etc! My best friend, Jayela, does minks, follow and book with her on Instagram @ Minkkontrol! 💞

• REST!

Mental:

• Meditation: It's okay to stop and take some deep breaths. Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 2, exhale for 4 seconds and repeat!

• Create new goals: It's handy to create a to-do list for the next day, the night before

• Paint or draw

• Read a new book

Social:

• Have a friend date: Y'all can do a little bible study, go out to eat or cook at home if you want to save money

• Call a loved one

• Have some time away from your phone and/or social media

• Set boundaries in ALL relationship

Invest in YOU! Your health matters. You matter, sis!

I hope this has helped you come up with some ideas for your personal self-care box! You deserve a break!! It is okay to rest and reset. 😘

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