In a world that often seems to be moving at lightning speed, where demands and distractions bombard us from every angle, taking care of and understanding ourselves can easily fall off our radar. However, amidst the chaos, the importance of self-care for strength of body, mind, and spirit never disappears. Thus, when developing a plan for implementation, we must not forget that there exists a fundamental truth: self-awareness is the cornerstone of self-care. During this time of year that seems to invite us towards reflection and introspection, let’s talk about why self-awareness is essential for nurturing our well-being of mind, body, and spirit and cultivate it in our daily lives.
Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand our own thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. How am I acting? Speaking? Relating to others? Thinking and feeling? So often these factors are tied to what’s insideof us, not outside circumstances, though. Thus, self-awareness also involves being mindful of our strengths and gifts, weaknesses and triggers, values and beliefs, our past (or current) wounds and traumas. These internal factors are so important to explore, for they are at the root of what comes out externally and are crucial to sustainable change and care of ourselves and others. True self-awareness provides understanding of what is happening TO us and OUSTIDE of us, but also what is happening INSIDE of us and FROM us, such as our reactions and behaviors. There are two types of self-awareness: Internal represents how clearly we see our own values, passions, hopes, reactions (thoughts, feelings, behaviors), strengths and weaknesses, and our impact on others. External means understanding how other people view us in terms of those internal factors. Both internal and external self-awareness are crucial to self-care, for at the core, self-awareness helps us to focus on what’s going on at the surface, what’s perhaps the deeper cause, and what we need to know to best understand and care for ourselves and others. It is the first needed step.
True self-care is not behavior modification, external additions, or time away, but true transformation, understanding and meeting core needs that come only after self-awareness is engaged. It forms the foundation of self-care because it empowers us to prioritize our well-being authentically and fully. When we're attuned to our thoughts and emotions, we can identify when we're feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed and identify their roots. Instead of ignoring these signals or numbing them with temporary fixes, we can address them head-on with compassion and understanding, and if needed true change.
Self-awareness enables us to recognize our true needs and set boundaries accordingly. Whether it's carving out time for rest, engaging in activities that bring us joy, or seeking support when we're struggling, self-awareness guides us in honoring our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. By prioritizing self-care that is based in self-awareness, we replenish our energy reserves, boost our resilience, and cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment in our lives.
Self-awareness takes time, reflection, and often the support of trusted friends or professionals, but practicing these steps can help us to begin to tune in and be mindful of our external and internal self. When a situation occurs that may be causing elevated emotions or racing thoughts, here are a few steps to begin practicing:
1. Breathe
2. Ask: What is happening right now?
3. Ask: What in this situation is making me think, behave, feel this way (internally and externally)?
4. Ask: Why might I be feeling, thinking, acting this way? Dig deeper.
5. With awareness and consciousness, choose what comes next (externally or internally). What would be most helpful for myself and others?
Self-awareness isn't always easy. It requires us to confront aspects of ourselves that we may prefer to ignore – our fears, insecurities, and imperfections. Yet, it's through this process of self-exploration that we cultivate greater authenticity, resilience, and compassion. Self-care must accompany self-awareness exploration, granting ourselves grace and understanding, space, intention, time, and freedom. Rather than criticizing ourselves for our perceived shortcomings, we can offer ourselves the same warmth and support that we would to a dear friend facing similar challenges.
When we prioritize self-awareness and self-care in our own lives, fruit follows. Research shows that self-awareness and seeing ourselves clearly, we are more confident and creative, we make better decisions and build stronger relationships, and communicate more effectively. We become better workers and better leaders.
We not only benefit ourselves with greater self-awareness, but also create a ripple effect that extends to those around us. By showing up as our authentic selves, we inspire others to do the same, fostering deeper connections and a greater sense of belonging. In caring for ourselves, we in turn care for others. We're better equipped to support others effectively. Just as we put on our own oxygen masks before assisting others in an airplane emergency, practicing self-care enables us to offer genuine compassion and support to those in need without depleting our own reserves.
In a world that often glorifies busyness and productivity, it's easy to overlook the importance of self-awareness and self-care. However, by prioritizing these practices, we not only nurture our own well-being but also create a foundation for a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Remember, self-awareness is not a destination but a continuous process of growth and evolution. As you cultivate greater awareness and compassion within yourself, you'll find that self-care becomes not just a habit but a way of life – one that nourishes and strengthens mind, body, and spirit in profound and transformative ways.
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