Self-care is taking an active role in defending one’s well-being and happiness. Our lives as Christians are permeated with the concept of self-sacrifice. We are a missionary congregation. We imitate Christ by laying down our lives for others. We have a responsibility to help those who are marginalized. Our professions exude a spirit of service. As Christians, self-sacrifice is ingrained in our DNA, as it should be.
As a result, we should take a step back and focus on our bodies, brains, and souls from time to time. Self-care encourages us to value ourselves more and to pay attention to our mental and emotional well-being. It completes us, enhances our physical health, decreases stress and anxiety, boosts self-esteem, preserves our mental health, and fosters stronger relationships.
1. Rest.
John 15: 4 “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” To begin with, if we are separated from Jesus, we will be unable to bear fruit. He is the source of all living things. Abide is to be at ease. We must find rest in Jesus. In today’s culture, this is virtually counter-intuitive. We place a premium on productivity and accomplishment. It’s something we do all the time. Learning to rest and resting without guilt may take some time. But you can rest assured that when you learn to rest, God is at work in you to make you more creative, successful, and, eventually, joyful. Keep in mind that joy is one of the fruits we bear.
2. Pray.
Prayer entails more than simply thanking God and presenting our petitions to Him. Prayer assists us in aligning our wills with God’s. A prayer is a form of self-care. We lift our souls and unburden them by praying.” Help me… guide me… direct me… hold me… empower me to be my greatest version of myself today,” is a simple prayer. Close your eyes, place your hands on your heart, and take a breath in the understanding that you are connected to Love if you are finding it hard to pray.
3. Sleep.
Make certain you get enough rest. Jesus slept even amid a raging storm at sea. You may schedule time in your life to get adequate sleep. Boost your mood. Sleep improves focus, energy, and concentration, so you’ll feel more productive. Lack of sleep has also been linked to mental disorders, including sadness, anxiety, and panic attacks, according to research.
4. Exercise.
Exercise aids in the maintenance of a healthy weight and body image. Exercise helps in keeping fit. You may also feel more confident as a result of your improved appearance. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, according to 1 Corinthians 16:19. We also know that exercise improves mood and allows you to live a longer, healthier life. Keep your temple in good shape.
5. Love yourself.
It entails embracing your feelings as they are and prioritizing your physical, emotional, and mental wellness. God loved us first, therefore we should also love ourselves the same way God loved us. After all, if we don’t love ourselves first, we won’t be able to love our neighbors as much as we love ourselves. You are a lovely and cherished child of God. That is the truth to live by, rest, study, and pray.
“Self-care is never a selfish act – it is simply good stewardship of the only gift we have, the gift we were put on earth to offer others. Anytime we can listen to our true self and give the care it requires, we do it not only for ourselves but for the many others whose lives we touch.”― Parker Palmer,