Nurturing mental health and stress recovery by treatingourselves with more compassion and care, says Pablo Reina Martinez...
In our fast-paced world, the importance of self-care cannot be overstated. It is a fundamental pillar of mental health and plays a crucial role in how we navigate our daily stresses. Understanding and implementing self-care practices can transform our relationship with ourselves and, by extension, our interactions with others. Let’s delve into the core aspects of self-care and how it can lead to a more balanced, fulfilling life.
The relationship with ourselves
Self-care is a mirror reflecting the relationship we have with ourselves. This relationship acts as a filter for how we engage with the world and those around us. When we prioritize self-care, we nurture our emotions and inner experiences, fostering a positive self-image and healthier interactions with others. By understanding and tending to our needs, we lay the groundwork for stronger, more authentic connections.
Embracing our emotions
At its essence, self-care is about how we relate to our emotions and inner experiences. It involves acknowledging our feelings, understanding their origins, and responding to them with compassion and kindness. This practice is at the heart of successful stress recovery. When we give ourselves permission to feel and address our emotions, we build resilience and improve our ability to manage stress.
Prioritising efforts and regeneration
Self-care also guides us in prioritizing our main efforts and regenerating our energy. It helps us identify what truly matters and where to focus our time and resources. By setting aside moments for rest and rejuvenation, we can maintain our productivity and well-being in the long run. Self-care is not about indulgence but about making mindful choices that support our overall health and happiness.
Principles of optimal self-care
One way to define optimal self-care is by applying the three principles of optimal parenting: affiliation, discipline, and autonomy support.
1. Affiliation: This involves care, kindness, and warmth towards ourselves. Just as a nurturing parent would offer love and support, we too must extend these qualities inward. This principle emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and understanding.
2. Discipline: Structure and consistent expectations are crucial. Self-care requires a disciplined approach where we set and adhere to routines that promote our well-being. This could include regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep.
3. Autonomy Support: Being empathetic towards our own feelings and preferences is vital. We must honor our individual needs and allow ourselves the freedom to choose activities that bring joy and fulfillment. This principle encourages us to listen to our inner voice and respect our personal boundaries.
Establishing a self-care habit
Creating a habit of self-care involves scheduling activities or time where honoring ourselves is the priority. By consistently setting aside moments for self-care, we can expect other important areas of our lives to flourish, including our relationships and overall productivity. This deliberate practice not only enhances our mental health but also enriches our daily experiences.
In conclusion, self-care is a multifaceted approach to maintaining mental health and managing stress. By fostering a positive relationship with ourselves, embracing our emotions, prioritizing our efforts, and applying principles of optimal parenting, we can create a balanced and fulfilling life. Start today by scheduling a small act of self-care and see how it transforms your well-being and the world around you. On of the best practices of self care is attending therapy where we can clarify and honour our inner world in a safespace and connection .
Pablo Reina is an integrative counsellor at our Queen Square and Stokes Croft, Bristol centres
