Self-care is often misunderstood as just “treating yourself.” In reality, it is a multifaceted practice essential for maintaining balance and health across all areas of your life. At Thrive Beyond Trauma Counseling, we believe in a holistic approach to wellness. Here is a breakdown of the different types of self-care you can incorporate into your daily life.
Social
Social self-care involves nurturing relationships outside of your immediate family: such as neighbors, friends, coworkers, church members, the community, support groups, and online groups. Key activities here involve managing your communications and personal boundaries.
Relational
Relational self-care focuses on strengthening the close, daily familial relationships around you, like your spouse, children, parents, and other close family members. In many cases, the stronger and more positive your daily relational self-care experience, the greater success you will have with habit and lifestyle change.
Physical
Physical self-care includes activities done for your physical well-being. This means being active, making good food choices, meal planning and prep, proper sleep, and sunscreen use. It also includes going to the doctor for wellness and preventative visits, as well as when you think you’re sick.
Emotional
Emotional self-care is about finding outlets for your feelings. Relaxation techniques, listening to music, or landscaping might work for some. Others may prefer talking with a counselor or a trusted friend.
Spiritual
Spiritual self-care is about exploring and expressing our beliefs, morals, and values. It may mean connecting with a larger purpose by observing nature or visiting museums. Alternatively, it can involve religious acts like praise, worship, prayer, or reading Scripture.
Intellectual
This type of self-care is about finding opportunities to engage your critical thinking, grow knowledge, and stimulate your mind. Activities include intelligence, emotional intelligence, career development, continuing education, and pursuing hobbies.
Safety & Security
Self-care begins with the foundation of your well-being. This involves activities done to stabilize your personal, environmental, and financial security. Access to healthcare and coverage is a huge component of this as well.
Why It Matters?
When you view self-care through these different lenses: Spiritual, Physical, Emotional, Intellectual, Social, and Relational, all built upon a foundation of Safety and Security, you create a comprehensive strategy for thriving.
At Thrive Beyond Trauma Counseling, we are here to support you in building these essential habits. If you are looking for guidance on how to implement these practices into your life, reach out to us today to schedule a session.
Address: Suite C, 37923 W. 12 Mile Rd, Farmington Hills, MI
Phone: (248) 392-3733
If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or your local emergency services, or visit the nearest emergency room.
Thrive Beyond Trauma Counseling does not provide crisis or emergency services.