Self-care is not Selfish

Have you ever been so busy you didn’t have time to eat? It has been rare for me; (because I like to eat! 🙂 ) However, it has happened. The truth is sometimes life gets incredibly busy. Now and then the pressing needs of family or work can demand full attention, and it is tempting NOT to pause for self-care.  However, in busy seasons, it is critical to permit yourself to refuel.

In the book of Mark, the disciples had been consumed with the needs of a crowd. They didn’t have time for lunch. Even with things undone, Jesus invited his disciples to pull away to a solitary place.

“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a solitary place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31-32 (NIV)

He created us and knows the human body needs rest.

So what does this mean in the 21st century? Here are some practical applications:

1. If you are a young mom, rest when your children rest.

2. Get a babysitter and do something for yourself. If you can’t afford a babysitter trade service with a good friend.

3. Work hard six days but pause and slow down day one day a week. (Exodus 20:10)

4. Teach yourself to sleep even if something is left undone. (Psalm 3:4-5)

5. Drop perfection. It will drive you crazy.

6. Go for a walk, go shopping, read a book and/or get a cup of specialty coffee.

7. Spend time with friends.

8. It is tired and typical of me to say, “Get 8 hours of sleep, eat right and exercise” BUT it is so true.

9. Create healthy boundaries. Sometimes it is best to say no, so you can say yes.

10. Stay off of social media! (Ha ha but only after you finish reading my post.)

11. Learn to journal and take time for prayer and meditation. (Matthew 11:28)

12. Listen to an uplifting podcast!

You can’t serve if you are running on empty. So sweet friend, re-fuel so you can re-engage. Renew your body, soul, and spirit. Even Jesus found time in the early parts of the morning. “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” Mark 1:35 (NIV)