The term "self-care" is everywhere, from social media feeds to magazine covers. But amidst the curated imagery and fleeting trends, what truly nourishes our well-being, especially on the days leading up to our period?
Going beyond the faux
Tired of self-care feeling like just another chore on your to-do list? You're not alone. In our culture, self-care has become a multi-billion dollar industry, often peddling quick fixes that fail to address the root causes of stress and burnout. But what if there was a different way?
Enter real self-care, a revolutionary approach pioneered by Dr. Pooja Lakshmin, a psychiatrist and author of "Real Self-Care." This framework flips the script on the commodified version of self-care, offering a path to sustainable well-being rooted in empowerment and personal agency.
Ditch the Band-Aids, Embrace the Revolution_
Dr. Lakshmin argues that true self-care isn't about indulging in temporary pleasures or masking deeper issues. Instead, it's about internal work, building resilience, and cultivating power to create positive change in your life and community. Think of it as trading in the bubble bath for a power drill, ready to build a foundation for lasting well-being.
The Four Pillars of Real Self-Care:
Dr. Lakshmin outlines four key pillars for building real self-care:
Setting boundaries_ Learn to say no, delegate, and prioritize your needs. This isn't about being selfish; it's about creating space for what truly matters.
Practicing self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you'd offer a loved one. Ditch the self-criticism and embrace self-acceptance.
Aligning your values_ What truly matters to you? Make choices that reflect your core values, not societal expectations.
Exercising power_ Recognize your strengths and use them to advocate for yourself and others. This can be anything from asking for a raise to joining a social justice movement.
Real Self-Care for Period Power_
Menstruation is a powerful, natural process, yet it's often shrouded in negativity and shame. By applying the principles of real self-care, we can cultivate period power:
Set boundaries_ Say no to activities that deplete your energy during your luteal or menstrual phase, when energy levels are often low. Prioritize rest (without the guilt) and self-care rituals that truly nourish you.
Practice self-compassion: Acknowledge and validate your physical and emotional experiences throughout your cycle. Replace judgment with understanding and acceptance.
Align your values_ Take the time to make sure that the world you navigate within reflects what you stand for. I often feel like our period is often a moment to cleanse not just within us but also around us by making space for things we cherish.
Exercise your power_ Why not take up the challenge the stigma surrounding menstruation. This can take many forms, from openly sharing your experiences to simply just empowering yourself to learn more about how your period impacts your life.
Self-care is a journey, not a destination.
There will be ups and downs, moments of doubt and frustration. But by embracing the four pillars of real self-care, we can cultivate a more sustainable and transformative approach to where well-being isn't just a privilege, but a right for all.
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