In a world that moves so fast, it’s easy to forget that caring for ourselves is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. The challenges of making time for true self-care are real, and they look different for everyone. What feels nourishing and restorative to one person might not resonate with another. But at the core of it all, self-care, for me, means truly attending to myself—mind, body, and soul.
I frame this up through the Four Pillars of Good Health: sleep, nourishment, movement, and stress management. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that when I make space for these four essential needs, everything else seems to fall into place—most of the time, anyway. Let’s explore these pillars together.
Sleep: The Foundation of Healing
I’m the first to admit that prioritizing sleep hasn’t always been easy. I’ve struggled with insomnia for most of my adult life, trying every herb, remedy, and pharmaceutical under the sun with little success. But through years of trial and error, I’ve discovered that the most effective remedy for me is creating a sacred sleep routine—a practice known as sleep hygiene. Sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. For me, that means going to bed at 8:30 most nights. Yes, it might sound a little crazy to some, but it’s what works. The peace of this nightly ritual has become an anchor in my life, grounding me in the soothing rhythm of rest.
Nourishment: A Dance Between Indulgence and Care
Nourishing my body with the right foods is an ongoing balancing act. I’m fortunate enough to cook for myself most of the time, and I find immense joy in it. But I also know that nourishment isn’t about strict diets or self-denial—it’s about offering myself a combination of nutritious, whole foods while honoring my cravings. Yes, I adore butter and bread (who doesn’t?), and I’ve long since let go of the idea of depriving myself of these pleasures. Instead, I focus on filling my plate with as many vegetables as I can tolerate & aiming to get enough protien daily (Shout out to my perimenopausal peeps), making sure my meals are full of vitality. But I also leave space for little indulgences because, truly, there’s an element of self-care in enjoying the foods that bring comfort.
Movement: Embracing Flexibility
When people talk about exercise, the word itself often carries a weight of obligation, of punishment. For me, that’s never been the right approach. Exercise was something I struggled with for years, but movement—movement feels different. I began with simple walks, which turned into hikes, and now, even when my body isn’t quite up for hiking as much as I’d like, I’ve embraced time at the gym. Treadmills might not be my ideal spiritual home, but they get the job done. Yoga used to be my go-to practice, but these days, I’m exploring strength-building exercises. I want to make it clear: the key is flexibility. Listen to your body, honor where it’s at, and do what feels right for you. As long as I’m moving, I’m nourishing my body and soul.
Stress Management: Creating Space for Calm
Stress is a relentless companion for many of us. Whether we’re dealing with a hormonal rush from a work deadline or the emotional strain of everyday life, our bodies respond the same way: Triggering our sympathetic nervous system also known as our fight or flight response. And yet, the world keeps demanding that we push forward, often without the chance to slow down. For me, creating a calming environment—whether through the soft glow of a virtual fireplace or the gentle crackling sounds of a cozy fire on YouTube—helps me manage the stress I carry. I’ve learned that even small changes, like switching my morning coffee to half-caffeinated, can ease my constant anxiety. And of course, the simple act of alternate nostril breathing always brings a sense of relief. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here; you have to find what works for you.
Ultimately, what I hope you take away from this is the importance of carving out moments for yourself. Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or rigid—it’s about being mindful of what your body and soul truly need. For me, the Four Pillars of Good Health have become a framework that’s flexible and compassionate, and I encourage you to explore how they might serve you too.
If you’re feeling called to dive deeper into the art of self-care and self-love, I’d like to extend an invitation. My Self-Love Initial Exploration conversation is still only $55, but that price will adjust after December 1st. I would love to walk with you on the path of nourishing yourself in the ways you deserve.
Remember, nurturing yourself is not a luxury; it’s the most radical act of love you can offer.
I hope you love yourself today,
M
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