How 5 Poets Define Self-Care
In these uncertain times, self-care is more important than ever. But what does self-care mean? Is there a universal definition or does it vary from person to person? These 5 poets took the time to speak with us about how they define self-care and how they practice it.
Eleanor Russell
“I believe self-care is looking after yourself physically, mentally and spiritually. I exercise regularly along with practising yoga and meditation. I think people focus too much on the physical aspects in our society and we’ve forgotten to look after our minds too, as from our mind we create our reality. a healthier mind will create a healthier outlook on life. Then all else will fall into place better.”
Dae Lee
“I’m quite simple when it comes to self-care. Every morning I wake up and take a deep breath to shut everything off. I create a breathing pattern that helps me become/remain present so that I’m not overwhelmed by my thoughts in the moment. Self-care is being present and careful with yourself. in a curated space, in your mind, whatever vice brings to self. In my case, it’s stillness and gentleness.”
Raquel Franco
“I admit that I do not practice self-care every day but I try my best. On the perfect day I would wake up an hour earlier than my kids and pray, read and journal. This always sets the tone for my day. Fitting in a workout gives me the strength and energy I need. As a person who battles, anxiety and depression when I’m feeling especially low, doing little things to lift my spirits are so important. Painting my nails, a hot bath, wearing my favorite pajamas and snuggling my little dragons really helps. Sometimes self-care is also just giving yourself a day of nothing.”
Tene Edwards
“Self-care to me is giving myself permission to live a life for myself over fulfilling others wishes for me, by doing the things that make me feel good, and help me tune into my inner voice, so that I can both recharge and nourish; my mind, body and spirit and be the best version of myself.”
Emmy Marucci
“Forgiveness is the most important thing. Forgiving yourself for not doing the things “you think you should do”. For not doing the things that you see so many people doing on Instagram. Cooking perfectly healthy meals, taking baths with Epsom salts and rose petals, meditating within nature. That’s all beautiful. But sometimes we need to forgive ourselves for not being able to do much of anything at all. That’s self-care too.”
