With all the stressful news flooding our social media feeds, self-care seems to be the byword to keep sane. But, most people aren't well versed on the topic and end up poorly explaining it. Magazines, blogs, and books, often tout self-care as the solution to everything, yet we're still unclear as to how. So you've brushed it off for being too "fluffy" or "wishy-washy". You don't find it something you should be practising in your life.

You look at what influencers are recommending and you find it too expensive and frivolous for your life. You need to work, you say. You need to earn more money and support your family. But you overwork yourself and your performance start to slump. You wake up late, you turn in work late, and you no longer have the energy for your family.

There is truth to the adage that "hard work pays off" but if taken too far, you become counterproductive. You're worn out. You are no longer as sharp. You've lost focus. Even when you push yourself to work harder, you are no longer working efficiently.

WHAT IS SELF-CARE?

Self-care covers all activities that you can do to be good to your body and to your self. If someone you loved were under the weather, you would do everything to show your kindness, correct? The same goes for self-care. It involves understanding your stressors, knowing when your energy is depleting, and taking a step back to recharge. Take it as you would your electronic device. If you find that your mobile phone is running under 10%, you would dash towards the nearest power source instead of having it drained away.

The goal is to avoid burnout to derail your life. This means having compassion for yourself. Forgiving your own lapses, understanding your weaknesses, and rewarding yourself for a job well done.

But remember, self-care shouldn't be confused with your vices! Not everything that feels good to you falls under self-care. Activities, like drinking alcohol, excessive eating, or staying late to the party, can provide immediate relief. But the effect is only temporary. It can lead to more harm than good.

Self-care is basically a healthy coping mechanism for your body. The goal is long term wellness for your mind and body.

Benefits of Self Care

What happens when you add self-care to your life? Not only will your mood and energy levels go up, but there are also other benefits as well:

Better Productivity. Imagine if you had the strength to say "no" to things that over-extend you. When you put self-care as an important activity in your life, your perspective changes. You begin to put top priority on things that truly matter more, this puts your goals into focus. You begin to concentrate on what you are doing.

Improved Immunity to illness. When you practice self-care, your body goes into a rested mode. It starts rejuvenating itself, therefore, strengthening the immune system. This means you will have lesser colds, flu or upset stomachs. When you're less stressed your body is stronger and more physically able to protect itself.

Better self-esteem. Your subconscious will take note of the time and effort you've put in for yourself. You are giving a positive message that adds value to who you are. Gradually, your inner voice will change it's tone, from being negative to positive.

Knowing yourself better. In choosing how to practice self-care, you need to constantly ask questions about yourself and what you really love. It is a quest into who you truly are and what inspires you.

In the end, being good to yourself is not a selfish act. With self-care, you end up giving more to others. You are fully charged and ready to be compassionate to others. Remember, you cannot give what you do not have in abundance!