Well-being

What is self-care?

/ edebock / 4 Comments

This is a post that’s been rattling around in my head since I spoke at the ladies retreat at our church in April. I mentioned self-care in my afternoon talk that day, but I wanted to develop the idea more fully here.

First of all, I want to be very clear about what self-care isn’t. Self-care is not selfish! In fact, it’s essential. It helps us stay strong and healthy physically, mentally, and emotionally so that we’re able to handle the stresses of daily life and be there for others.

Self-care needs to be intentional. It’s much more than just a bubble bath or even a one-time spa escape, although those are wonderful ways to relax! Self-care involves making lifestyle choices that nurture body, mind, and spirit. It includes getting enough sleep, eating a nourishing diet, getting regular exercise, and seeking medical care when it’s needed. Self-care isn’t always glamorous or fun, but going to the dentist, starting a new exercise program, or choosing a reasonable bedtime are all ways of investing in your overall well-being.  

There’s much more to self-care than just taking care of our physical bodies though. As holistic beings self-care needs to address every aspect of our well-being. We need to make choices that also help us live well mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to self-care, but there are some common factors. We’re fundamentally wired to be social beings. Close connections with other people are essential to our well-being. We need to make time to connect with family and friends, but most of us, especially those of us who are introverts, also need alone time. Like many things in life, it’s about finding the correct balance; balance that works for you and is good for your well-being.

Emotional self-care means taking care of your feelings; your inner wellness. It means means recognizing, understanding, and managing (not suppressing) your emotions. It includes actively challenging negative self-talk as well as knowing your limits and setting appropriate boundaries. It also involves taking time to relax. That might mean escaping into a good book, watching a favourite show, engaging in an enjoyable hobby, or spending time in nature. Pursuing fulfilling and meaningful activities that give your life meaning and purpose are also essential to emotional wellness.

I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention soul-care. Although there’s overlap between how we take care of our emotional and spiritual selves, soul-care also involves specific faith or tradition based practices that nurture our relationship with our Creator and allow Him to fill us. This might include scripture reading, prayer, meditation, or journalling as well as being part of a community that provides encouragement and accountability.

As strange as it might sound, one of the most spiritual things that we can do for ourselves is rest. That’s why God introduced the idea of Sabbath. There’s a big difference between being “tired” and being “depleted.” If we’re simply tired, a nap can solve the problem, but when we’re “depleted,” we need something more. So, if you find yourself feeling overworked, overwhelmed and over stressed this is your invitation to slow down and focus on how you might better engage in self-care. Quality self-care has been shown to improve mental health, enhance self-esteem and self-worth, increase optimism, and lessen symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can also help build resilience so you’re better equipped to handle life’s many stressors and challenges. 

Fashion and self-care

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What comes to mind when you think of self-care? Eating nutritious meals? Exercising? Getting enough sleep? Scheduling some “me” time? In reality, there are a myriad of ways that we can take an active role in preserving or improving our own well-being, but when I asked what comes to mind when you think about self-care, you probably didn’t think about fashion.

The morning ritual of getting dressed is an often overlooked aspect of self-care, but it plays an important role in our well-being. In fact, a common symptom of depression is difficulty showering and getting dressed.

There are times, like during the incredible cold snap that we’ve experienced here in Alberta recently, when getting dressed truly is a matter of caring for our bodies. Keeping warm and protecting ourselves from the elements is priority #1.

But dressing contributes to self-care in ways far beyond keeping warm. Taking care of our mental and emotional well-being is just as important as caring for our physical comfort and fashion can play a vital role in that. We’ve all heard the term “dress for success”, but dressing mindfully is about more than impressing other people. It’s also about feeling confident, comfortable, and empowered. When we dress in ways that make us feel good about ourselves, we’re also more likely to participate in other self-care practices like exercising, eating well, engaging with others, or getting out in nature. In addition, intentional dressing sparks creativity which is also good for our physical and mental health.

Please note that this is not a post about “retail therapy”. Retail therapy is the act of shopping for clothes to make yourself feel better which may or may not actually work. Instead, as I’ve done before, I urge you to shop your closet. Take time to put together outfits that enhance your mental and emotional state; that make you feel truly good about yourself. If there are pieces in your closet that don’t do this for you, that drag you down emotionally, consider getting rid of them.

In the dark days of winter and a time when what’s going on in the world around us might seem overwhelming, it’s easy to begin to feel like we’re in an emotional rut. In times like this, more than ever, we need the boost that looking and feeling good in our clothes can give us.

Choosing the right walking shoes

/ edebock / 7 Comments

Screenshot 2024-05-09 at 7.40.11 PMAfter writing about my 150 day walking challenge earlier this week and encouraging you to consider joining me, I thought that this would be a good time for a post about how to choose the right walking shoes. If you’re walking in comfy, but well-worn sneakers, you might want to consider investing in a new pair that are dedicated to walking.

The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends replacing your walking shoes every 600 to 800 miles (approximately 950 to 1300 km). Some experts advise replacing them even more often, so be sure to check yours from time to time. If they’re becoming worn or have lost cushioning, it’s time for a new pair. Brand-new, well-fitting walking shoes might even put a bit more spring in your step and encourage you to walk a little farther.

Because feet come in various shapes and sizes, it’s impossible to recommend a specific style or brand that would suit everyone, but there are some tips that can help you find a pair that are right for you. First of all, shop late in the day. Our feet tend to expand a little throughout the day, so it’s best to try on shoes when they’ve swelled a bit. Also think about what kind of socks you’ll wear on your walks. The thickness of your socks will affect how the shoes fit, so take them shopping with you. If you wear orthotics, be sure to take those too. 

Comfort and fit go hand in hand and are by far the most important factors to consider when choosing the right walking shoes. Choose a shoe that is lightweight and breathable. You want it to fit snuggly at the heel and through to the middle of your foot, but it shouldn’t crowd your toes. The toe box should have enough wiggle room for your toes to splay out a bit, but not too much. Make sure that there’s a finger’s width or about half an inch between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe. Don’t hesitate to try on several different brands and styles to find the one that is right for you. 

The insole of a good walking shoe should cushion each step and it should feel like it’s adequately supporting the arch of your foot. Look for a uniform level of cushioning, rather than a higher heel cushion. The outer sole should provide adequate traction. 

Check the shoe for flexibility and stability. Hold it by the heel and bend the toe upward. It should bend at the ball of the foot. Grasp it at the heel and toe, then twist. You should feel moderate resistance. 

Finally, take a walk around the store before you decide to buy to ensure that the shoes you choose fit well and are completely comfortable. The old idea that shoes need to be broken in doesn’t apply to walking shoes. 

Good quality athletic shoes can be expensive, but your feet are worth it. You are worth it! Consider these shoes an investment in your well-being. Then get out there and enjoy walking!