We hear the phrase “self care” thrown around a lot. Often in our culture, it’s mentioned in conjunction with numbing out behaviors like drinking or binge-watching Netflix, or with the beauty industry activities such as face masks, mani/pedis, and bubble baths. There’s a time and place for activities like this, and they can certainly bring about relaxation and stress relief. Yet sometimes they come with a cost—a Netflix hangover, a literal hangover, or a steep bill at the salon or the bar.
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The good news is, loving yourself doesn’t only mean vegging out, buying yourself presents, and making your skin look pretty. The next time you need to give yourself a little lovin’, consider these options:
- Set gentle limits like a caring, consistent parent would.
- Give yourself a hug.
- Talk to yourself like you’d talk to a friend.
You are dear. You are to be cherished. You deserve love and belonging. Be sure to treat yourself that way!
—Jill Hokanson
